When To Stop Working on Friday

Answer by Rabbi Chaim Hillel Raskin – Moreh Hora’ah at Beis Horaa in Rechovot, Israel:

Besides the mitzva to prepare for Shabbos personally, Chazal instituted a prohibition to work for some time before Shabbos so that a person is free to prepare for and properly usher in Shabbos.

Chazal say that one who works at that time will not see blessing from the work he does, and whatever money he earns will be lost elsewhere.

The prohibition applies equally to one whose Shabbos needs are provided for by others.

What time does this prohibition begin?

The Gemara says that it begins from mincha, but Rishonim are divided whether this means mincha gedola – a halachic half-hour after chatzos (midday), or mincha ktana – two and half halachic hours before sunset. The Alter Rebbe permits following the lenient opinion.

Even after that time, certain forms of work are permitted:

* Work that may be done on chol hamoed, such as to prevent a loss to property (davar ha’aveid), for the benefit of the public (l’tzorech rabim), or for health needs.

* Minor work, such as writing a letter, fixing a button, and ironing clothing, may also be done (these may be done even for pay, provided that they are not one’s occupation). Gardening is not permissible.

* One who needs money to shop for Shabbos, or one who borrowed money to shop for Shabbos and needs to pay it back may work for that money.

* Mitzva work, such as altering or making garments for Shabbos or preparing tzitzis or tefillin, is permissible when done for free.

* Haircutting is obviously for Shabbos and is therefore permitted;15 it’s also a mitzva to cut long hair before Shabbos.

One may request a non-Jew to do work.

Sales and business weren’t included in the prohibition according to the Alter Rebbe, rather only active melachos. Yet, one should close his business an hour before shkiah so that he doesn’t mistakenly run into chilul Shabbos R”L.

Originally published by Merkaz Anash. Sources