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Why does the Gemara (גמרא) prohibit poor wicks for Chanukah (חנוכה) lights even during weekdays, then add a separate reason for Shabbos (שבת)? The analysis distinguishes between the basic mitzvah (מצוה) candle and hiddur candles, showing that inferior wicks might be permitted for additional lights. This reveals deeper principles about whether extinguished lights void the original mitzvah or create a new obligation to relight.
This shiur provides a detailed examination of the Gemara (גמרא) in Masechta Shabbos (שבת) 21a regarding which wicks and oils are permissible for Shabbos candle lighting versus Chanukah (חנוכה) candle lighting. The Gemara states that wicks and oils that cannot be used for Shabbos candles also cannot be used for Chanukah lights, neither on Shabbos nor during the week. Rabbi Zweig explores Tosafos (תוספות)' question: if these materials are already prohibited during the week for Chanukah because they might extinguish, why does the Gemara need to add a separate reason for Shabbos? The analysis focuses on the phrase 'ain madlikin' (we do not light) and whether this indicates an outright prohibition or merely a preference for better materials.
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Shabbos 21a
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