Time for Lighting Candles Initially and After the Fact
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Question
It is very difficult for me to arrive on time for candle lighting. Can I arrive later and light then?
Answer
It is advisable to make an effort to arrive on time, especially since according to many opinions, the mitzvah is not fulfilled after the time of lighting, as stated in the Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim, Siman 671, Paragraph 1): "One must be very careful with the lighting of Chanukah candles." There is also the concept of being zealous in performing mitzvot. However, after the fact, or when it is impossible, or in cases of great necessity, one can rely on the opinions that the mitzvah is fulfilled until dawn.