Mm-Mm I want to linger
Mm-Mm a little longer
Mm-Mm a little longer here with you
So goes the old campfire song. If youve ever felt that way about Shabbat, wanting that day of serenity, of spiritual focus, of family, friends and food, not to go away, this Shabbat is the day for you.
This evening 8:13 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time in Denver marks the latest-starting, and therefore the latest-ending, Shabbat of the year. Using the formula of 25 hours and three minutes, this Shabbat lingers until 9:16 p.m., Saturday night.
For those who do not observe Shabbat regularly, heres an opportunity to try it out. With such a late start time, you dont have to have Friday night dinner on the table until after 8:13 p.m. You could actually start making it after work today and have it done in time for a festive repast. Just start out with some blessings candles, kiddush and hamotzi and youre on your way to a truly special 25 hours and three minutes.
After synagogue Saturday morning, especially during the first week of summer, there will be plenty of time to enjoy the gifts of nature with leisurely walks, outdoor meals, reading on the patio and, dont forget, that all-important Shabbat nap. You could return to synagogue for classes, prayer and fellowship before saying goodbye to Shabbat along with other Jews, or you could conduct the easy, brief Havdalah ceremony at home after 9:16 p.m.
More good news: next weeks Shabbat also starts at 8:13 p.m. Another chance to luxuriate in this mitzvah as late as possible. After that, the sunset starts to reverse and, slowly, the 25 hours and three minutes start and end earlier and earlier until candlelighting is about 4:15 p.m., near the winter solstice.
Thats not a bad thing; it just takes some extra forethought and preparation.
In the end, its all the same. Its Shabbat. G-ds gift. Natures rotation. Mans release. All in one.
Copyright © 2011 by the Intermountain Jewish News
