Halachic instructions for Shabbat Kodesh Parashat Noah

He revealed to His people His powerful works, in giving them the heritage of nations. (Tehillim 111:6)

Rabbi Shimon Golan

 

A. Mikvahs: All four mikvahs for women are open on Shabbat evening during normal hours. Each mikveh has a protected space. Immersion not during regular hours, must be coordinated with the rabbis, after consultation with a rabbi.

B. It is well known that in any professional matter, medical or security related, we must listen to the opinion of the professionals. Therefore, one must act according to the instructions of the army, the home front command, and the security department.

C. Congregants in Synagogues: In a building with a protected space, up to 300 people may gather, provided they can reach a protected space within 90 seconds. Inside every synagogue, make sure that there is at least one armed individual and one with a mobile device.

D. Minyans outside: Praying outdoors is permitted in groups of up to 30 people, provided that everyone can reach a protected space within 90 seconds (for example, in individual homes). Make sure that at least one individual is armed and one is with a mobile device.

E. Individuals must find out in advance where the nearest protected area is, and whether it can be reached in time.

F. In the event of a siren during prayer, one must evacuate immediately to the protected area, even if one is in the amida prayer or during the reading of the Torah. In such a case, the prayer can be continued from the place where it was stopped.

G. In the event of an emergency, all security, medical, and welfare professionals, will work as usual. Those who are recruited into the army may travel immediately, and another person is even allowed to drive them.

H. Residents who assist with security and patrols (in coordination with the security department) may use a vehicle, as they do usually.

I. Activating mobile phones: Anyone who has a position in the emergency system, or is on call, or has potential for being called by the army - should leave their device on, and answer if necessary.

J. People not working in the emergency system: There are leniencies to use phones in order to be updated with alerts, etc. My personal opinion is that there is no need for this, but those who are particularly stressed can rely on the leniencies. The same is the case with regard to using the silent station on the radio/television. In my humble opinion, it is better to download the applications of the Efrat Local Council and the Home Front Command, and leave the mobile devices on, on Shabbat. From the experience of the last few days, it seems to me that the alert system in Efrat works well, and can be trusted. In the event of an alarm or announcement of terrorist intrusion, God forbid, you can use your phone to follow the instructions.

"Let us be strong and resolute for the sake of our people and the land of our G-d; And Hashem will do what He deems right." (Shmuel Bet 10:12)