Halachic Times

Since the Jewish day changes at nightfall (and the night generally begins when the stars come out), this brings to mind a number of halachic challenges for observing mitzvot.

If making kiddush and listening to the shofar enhances our relationship with G‑d—as we believe all mitzvot do—why the strict time limitation? Is it not the thought, and the desire to connect, that count more than all else?

Night Prayers While The Sun Is Shining?!In the summer months, many synagogues elect to pray the Maariv (evening) prayer before nightfall. Similarly, these communities usher in the Shabbat on Friday afternoon well before the stars appear in the heaven. By ...

You've touched on a subject which is discussed at great length in various sources in Jewish literature. There are differing opinions on the halachic definition of sundown, and the 12th century French Talmudic scholar Rabbeinu Tam is renowned for his opini...

The Human TempleThe Temple contained two altars: the Copper Altar, situated in the Temple courtyard, and the Golden Altar, located in the Temple’s sanctuary, which was used for offering the daily incense. The Jewish body and soul is today’s Temple of G-d;...

Question: During the summer months, my community begins the Shabbat eve services on Friday afternoon, well before sunset, commencing an "early Shabbat." At that point, is it Friday or Shabbat? If it is Friday how can we make the Shabbat Kiddush before nig...

In the second exchange between the stoic philosopher Antoninus, who was Caesar of Rome, and Rebbi, the redactor of the Mishna, they discuss the solar orbit—specifically, the nature of the sun’s setting. Although from a modern astronomical and scientific p...

I’m having lots of guests from very different backgrounds over for the Seder, and I don’t want people to have to stay out too late.

Does time, as well, have a topography?