The IDF has published a new booklet on the interface of a soldier’s duties and the restrictions of Shabbat law, Ynet reported. Primarily aimed at haredi soldiers and called "Defending the Nation, Guarding the Torah," the booklet contains Shabbat rules written by IDF officers who are Orthodox rabbis.
IDF Publishes New Shabbat Guide For Haredi And Orthodox Soldiers
Shmarya Rosenberg • FailedMessiah.com
The IDF has published a new booklet on the interface of a soldier’s duties and the restrictions of Shabbat law, Ynet reported. Primarily aimed at haredi soldiers and called "Defending the Nation, Guarding the Torah," the booklet contains Shabbat rules written by IDF officers who are Orthodox rabbis.
Some key points:
• The following rules apply only when there is no urgent need. During a firefight or in other immediate danger, soldiers must fulfill their mission as soon as possible without concern for Shabbat.
• "Desecrating Shabbat due to operational necessities is not a sin, but is a mitzvah.”
• Pre-Shabbat check list:
* Refuel vehicles and check both water and oil
* Remove unnecessary equipment from flak jacket and from vehicles
* Change batteries in radio equipment
* Prepare list of guard shifts
* Check before Shabbat to see whether planned missions are of a civilian nature (for example, providing security for tourists or reinforcing other units)
* Call parents to wish them Shabbat Shalom
* Light candles
• Driving on Shabbat:
* Do not push the gas pedal more than necessary or drive more than is required.
* Driving is only permitted for security incidents and medical emergencies.
* Driving to a guard post on the far side of the base is forbidden. On larger bases, soldiers should consult with the base rabbi for the correct procedure to follow.
• Using electricity:
* A fan may be turned on only if the temperature may harm the operational status of the unit.
• Using a communication radio:
* Announce ahead of time that you do not answer non-operational calls on Shabbat.
* If there is any doubt if the call is operational or not, the call must be answered.
• Outpost and base drills can only be done before Shabbat.
• Sticklight and thermal bag are permitted on condition they prevent worse violations of Shabbat.
• Flak jackets may carry food, snacks, Torah, map, binoculars, compass, and night-vision gear
• Flak jackets may not carry sunglasses, keys, and wallets.
• Hot showers are not permitted on Shabbat. Cold showers are allowed.