Shabbat Ends - Cooking Starts?

Asked by Adam Malofsky · December 13, 2003 · Shabbat

Question

When can you start cooking after sunset on Saturday? In other words, I remember being taught that the moment the sun sets is not truly the "confident" end of the day because of reflected light in the sky (not true, complete darkness save light pollution or the confusion caused by it). I remember being taught to wait some minimum time after the astrological sunset. I'm particularly interested in sunset on Saturday, December 20th, 2003 in Cincinnati, Ohio at 5:17 pm. When can we cook the Hannukah meal at our synagogue? Respectfully, Adam Malofsky

Answer

Answered by Aaron Abadi

Shabbat ends when you see three medium stars. In our cities it is often hard to tell by the stars. In the United States, by 45 minutes after sunset you can certainly begin cooking. Happy Chanuka! AA