Shabbos Preparation

QUESTION: When is the optimal time to shop and prepare for Shabbos?

ANSWER: The Shulchan Aruch (250:1) writes that one should begin preparing for Shabbos early Friday morning. This is derived from the Manna. While in the desert, B’nei Yisrael were instructed to gather Manna on Friday in preparation of Shabbos. In expressing this commandment, the Torah states, “Vihaya”, “And it will be on the sixth day when they prepare etc.” (Shemos 16:5). The Medrash Tanchuma demonstrates that the word “vihaya” implies immediacy.

The Mishna Berura (250:2) writes that although one should start in the morning, preparations should not commence until after davening is concluded.

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The Gerald & Karin Feldhamer OU Kosher Halacha Yomis is dedicated to the memory of Rav Yisroel Belsky, zt"l, who served as halachic consultant for OU Kosher for more than 28 years; many of the responses in Halacha Yomis are based on the rulings of Rabbi Belsky. Subscribe to the Halacha Yomis daily email here.