Bnei Brak Rabbis Issue New Shabbat Guidelines Amid Winter Time Traffic
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Rabbis in Bnei Brak have issued new guidelines for Shabbat observance due to winter time changes and Friday traffic jams. The public is advised to complete travel two hours before Shabbat candle lighting, with businesses urged to close early. These measures aim to prevent potential Shabbat desecration caused by traffic delays.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Bnei Brak rabbis issued new Shabbat guidelines due to winter time and traffic.
- Public must reach destinations two hours before Shabbat candle lighting.
- Businesses are instructed to close at least 30 minutes before candle lighting.
- Urgent travel requires arrival at least 80 minutes before sunset.
- New rules aim to prevent Shabbat desecration from traffic delays.
In response to the transition to winter time and increased Friday traffic congestion, rabbis in Bnei Brak have issued new guidelines aimed at preventing Shabbat desecration. The public is urged to reach their destinations two hours before candle lighting, and business owners are instructed to close their shops earlier. The rabbis' letter, titled "We Shall Receive the Face of Shabbat," addresses concerns that drivers leaving late on Fridays could become stuck in traffic and be unable to reach their homes before Shabbat begins. The guidelines recommend that the public plan their journeys to arrive at their destinations a full two hours before candle lighting. In urgent situations, the rabbis stipulate, arrival at least 80 minutes before sunset is required. They warn that even short trips can be unexpectedly prolonged due to traffic, accidents, or other delays, potentially leading to extreme time pressure and attempts to rush home, risking Shabbat violations. Business owners and shopkeepers in Bnei Brak are also called upon to adjust their operating hours. Shops should close at least 30 minutes before candle lighting to allow owners and employees to finish work and prepare for Shabbat without pressure. Furthermore, businesses are instructed not to reopen on Saturday evening until 30 minutes after Shabbat ends.
