Sabbath Times

[Deleted]

I was thinking today of the many countries and peoples who observe the Sabbath around the world. They all observe the Sabbath as different times. It is like a wave. For example, Israel may be starting to observe their Sabbath, while on the other side of the world they may be preparing to get ready for the Sabbath. And than when Israel has ended their Sabbath day rest the other side of the world begins their Sabbath. 

Like in Australia. I have a Jewish friend who is 14 hrs ahead of me. I am here in Canada. So in Australia they could be starting their Sabbath while my side of the world could be preparing to observe. And than when Australia has finished observing their Sabbath, we here are just starting to observe. It is interesting in how that works. If one were to check all the time differences starting at Israel and going around the world you will see it is like a wave. 

I love how God has worked that all out. 

However, what do they do on the Northern hemisphere and the Southern hemisphere? The North Pole at some point in their season there is darkness for several days before the sun come back around. In the Southern hemisphere they will see days and days of light with no darkness. How would they observe the Sabbath? Would they not have a set time when to start their Sabbaths?

It was just a question and thought that was popping around in my head today.

Moriah Ruth 

[alon]

Look at it from the perspective of the spiritual realm- that "wave" effect with people beginning their Sabbath worship ... kind of mind boggling.

As for extreme northern climes, as a Southerner from the edges of the Bible Belt, I can speak as one with authority- AND TO LIVE AT THE POLES IS AS PAGAN AS YOU CAN GET! Don't believe me? Well where does Santa live? Huh? Tell me THAT!

Dan C

(Actually the length of days would make it interesting, kind of like adding another dimension to the worship cycle as the earth turns ...

[alon]

OK, a more serious answer might be one that Rabbi S. talked about. We tend to think as Rabbinical Judaism that halacha is everything that was laid down by "the Rabbis" before us. But in reality, and apparently the way it is meant to be done (hey, I'm no authority, so it is apparent not set in concrete); halacha is made by your own Rabbis to fit the times and place in which you live. It must conform to Biblical standards and precedent, but it also can be different from place to place. In your example, I would think halacha would in some way tie the timing of Shabbat to a calendar as well as a clock. But I really don't know, not being in any danger of becoming a Rabbi in this life myself. Heck, even our little yeshiva is just sort of yeshiva-ish, so ... best I can tell you.

It would be an interesting concept for a knowledgeable group of three or so Rabbis to do a ministry such as your husband does. Sort of online Messianic counseling and leadership for those who have nothing available. But sure as anyone suggests it a bunch of half baked seminary rejects would glom onto it and start preaching Unitarianism or some such thing. So I better not say anything.

Dan C

[Deleted]

What is all this ranting about Pagan North Pole and South Pole? Did I mention anything with regards to Santa? NO! I was talking about Sabbaths times with different time zones across the world.

Alon, I think you fell off your steed (horse) when you gave that silly answer. However, thank you for a proper response on your second response.

Moriah Ruth