In a unique twist on Jewish tradition, the city of Tromsø, Norway, located far above the Arctic Circle, has adopted a one-of-a-kind approach to observing Shabbat.

According to JTA, local Jewish residents and visitors faced a dilemma—how to mark the beginning and end of Shabbat when the sun never sets during the summer months. In response, Tromsø’s Jewish community worked with rabbinic authorities to develop a halachic (Jewish legal) solution: use the timing from the nearest city with a sunset.

This adaptation allows the small Jewish population in Tromsø to maintain their spiritual rhythm and communal traditions even in a place where nature doesn’t follow the usual patterns.

The story highlights how Judaism continues to evolve and adapt to geographic and cultural extremes—proving that tradition and innovation can coexist.

👉 For more stories about Jewish life around the world, follow Zushi’s List.

Read the full article from the original source:
JTA – This northern Norway city has adopted a one-of-a-kind approach to observing Shabbat

Source: Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA), July 8, 2025