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Time of Tzeis

What are the different shitos regarding Tzeis Hakochavim (nightfall) as per how many minutes it begins from Shekia (sunset)?

Answer:

There are several opinions concerning this matter.

According to the Geonim the time of tzeis is determined by a number of minutes after sunset as we see it. The number of minutes is three quarters of a mil, which is either 13.5 mins or 18 mins.

However, many authorities have advocated adding some time to this, based on the Gemara’s requirement for three stars to appear. The appearance of three stars depends on the amount of light reaching the earth from the setting sun, which depends on the distance of the sun from the horizon (in degrees). The speed of the setting sun varies from place to place, as will the timing of tzeis based on this calculation. The Baal HaTanya, for instance, gives 34 mins for Russia (though this will also vary from winter to summer).

According to Rabbeinu Tam there is a “second sunset” and tzeis is calculated from the second sunset, which reaches 72 mins from the first sunset.

Best wishes.

 

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