In biblical terms, the concept of "twilight" holds significant importance, particularly in the context of the Hebrew calendar and the observance of religious practices. Twilight, often referred to as "between the evenings" in Hebrew tradition, marks the transition from day to night and is a critical time for various ceremonial and ritual activities.

Definition and Timing

Twilight is the period between sunset and the onset of complete darkness. In the biblical context, it is often associated with the time of day when the sun has set but residual light remains in the sky. This period is crucial for determining the end of one day and the beginning of the next in the Hebrew calendar, which traditionally considers a day to begin at sunset.

Biblical References

The Bible makes several references to twilight, particularly in the context of sacrificial practices and the observance of the Sabbath. In Exodus 12:6, the Passover lamb is to be slaughtered "at twilight" on the 14th day of the first month: "You must keep it until the fourteenth day of the month, when the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel will slaughter the animals at twilight" . This timing underscores the importance of twilight as a transitional period for sacred observances.

Leviticus 23:32 also highlights the significance of twilight in the observance of the Day of Atonement: "It will be a Sabbath of complete rest for you, and you shall humble yourselves. On the ninth day of the month at evening, from evening to evening, you shall keep your Sabbath" . Here, the phrase "from evening to evening" indicates the span of a full day, beginning and ending at twilight.

Cultural and Religious Significance

In Jewish tradition, twilight is known as "bein ha'arbayim," meaning "between the evenings." This period is not only a time for religious observance but also a moment of reflection and preparation. The transition from daylight to darkness symbolizes a shift from the mundane to the sacred, as seen in the preparation for the Sabbath and other holy days.

The observance of twilight as a marker for the beginning of a new day is rooted in the creation narrative found in Genesis 1, where "there was evening, and there was morning—the first day" (Genesis 1:5). This sequence establishes the biblical precedent for measuring days from evening to evening.

Practical Implications

For the ancient Israelites, twilight was a practical time for completing daily tasks before the onset of darkness. It was also a time for gathering with family and community to prepare for the evening meal and engage in communal worship. The transition from day to night provided a natural pause in daily activities, allowing for rest and spiritual reflection.

In contemporary practice, the observance of twilight continues to hold significance in Jewish and Christian communities. For Jews, the lighting of the Sabbath candles at twilight marks the beginning of the Sabbath, a time of rest and spiritual renewal. For Christians, understanding the biblical concept of twilight can enhance the appreciation of the historical and cultural context of biblical events and practices.

Conclusion

Twilight, as described in the Bible, serves as a significant marker for religious observance and the transition between days. Its role in sacrificial practices, Sabbath observance, and the broader Hebrew calendar underscores its importance in biblical tradition. The period from twilight until the evening of the next day remains a time of reflection, preparation, and spiritual significance in both historical and contemporary religious practice.