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Question:
I am a Gabbai (synagogue administrator) in the synagogue, and while the congregation extends their Seudah Shlishit (the third meal of Shabbat), I need to organize several matters. Is it permissible for me to perform Havdalah before the Arvit (evening) prayer?
Answer
It is permissible for you to perform Havdalah. Since Shabbat has already ended, you may say Havdalah and pray Arvit afterward; this was simply ruled in the Shulchan Aruch HaRav (Siman 293).
However, according to the secrets of the Torah (Al Pi HaSod), it is forbidden to light a candle before the recitation of Kedusha DeSidra—the prayer of “Uva LeTziyon” (Zohar, Introduction; Kaf HaChaim 294). Nevertheless, if there is time pressure and communal needs (Tzorkei Tzibbur) are resting upon you, you may be lenient and perform Havdalah, including the candle, without concern.
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