Shabbat Times for Parashat Vayera 5787

Parashat Vayera, the fourth portion in the Book of Genesis, serves as a cornerstone of Jewish narrative, spanning from chapter 18, verse 1, to chapter 22, verse 24. This week’s reading is rich with profound theological and moral lessons, beginning with the visit of three angels to Abraham’s tent. These messengers arrive to deliver the miraculous news that Sarah will conceive a son, Isaac, despite her advanced age. Sarah’s reaction—a skeptical laugh—is met with a divine rebuke, emphasizing the theme of faith and the belief that nothing is impossible for the Almighty.

Beyond the announcement of Isaac’s birth, the narrative shifts to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The angels proceed to the wicked cities to rescue Lot and his family, providing a stark contrast between the hospitality of Abraham and the corruption of the cities of the plain. The portion also details the expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael, a complex family drama that carries significant historical and spiritual weight. Finally, the portion culminates in the Akeidah, or the Binding of Isaac, which remains one of the most challenging and discussed episodes in the Torah, testing Abraham’s absolute devotion and faith.

For those observing the Sabbath, timing is essential. As the sun sets, the transition from the mundane work week to the sanctity of Shabbat begins. In Jerusalem, candle lighting is set for 16:16, with Havdalah at 17:28. Tel Aviv residents will light candles at 16:32, concluding at 17:30. In Haifa, the times are 16:24 and 17:28, respectively. Beersheba observes 16:34 and 17:30, while Eilat follows 16:25 and 17:31. In the Hebron and Gush Etzion regions, candles are lit at 16:36, with Havdalah at 17:29. Finally, in Safed, the Sabbath begins at 16:24 and ends at 17:26. These times are vital for communities to coordinate their prayers and festive meals, ensuring that the sanctity of the day is maintained according to local custom and halachic requirements.