The Light of Shabbat Candles
Lighting Shabbat candles is one of the most cherished mitzvahs in Judaism. It ushers in the holiness of Shabbat with warmth and light, transforming our homes into havens of peace and spirituality. This timeless tradition has been passed down through generations, and every flame kindled connects us to the essence of Shabbat and to each other.
How to Light Shabbat Candles
When: The candles are lit 18 minutes before sunset on Friday evening. Check the exact time for your location here.
Preparation: Place two or more candles in a candlestick or holder. Married women traditionally light two candles, while some add candles for each child in the family.
Lighting: After lighting the candles, wave your hands three times over the flames to draw in the holiness of Shabbat, then cover your eyes and recite the blessing.
The Blessing (Bracha)
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה אֲדֹנָי אֱלֹקֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָּנוּ לְהַדְלִיק נֵר שֶׁל שַׁבָּת קֹדֶשׁ
Transliteration:
Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech Ha’olam, Asher Kidshanu B’mitzvotav V’tzivanu L’hadlik Ner Shel Shabbat Kodesh.
Translation:
Blessed are You, Lord our G‑d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat.
Why We Light Shabbat Candles
The Shabbat candles embody two central themes of Shabbat:
Shalom Bayit (peace in the home) and
Oneg Shabbat (the delight of Shabbat).
Their light creates an atmosphere of serenity, elevating the home with the sanctity of the day. According to Jewish teachings, lighting the Shabbat candles also brings spiritual light into the world, dispelling darkness and infusing the world with holiness.
Every woman and girl, has the unique privilege of fulfilling this mitzvah, becoming a source of light for their family and community. Each of us has the potential to illuminate the world around us through our actions, words, and mitzvot.
Each Candle, a Shining Soul
In Chassidic thought, the light of the Shabbat candles represents the soul. Just as the flame naturally rises, so too does the Jewish soul yearn to connect with G‑d. By lighting Shabbat candles, we illuminate not only our homes but also our inner selves, revealing the G‑dly spark within us and shining that light into the world.
This mitzvah is a reminder that we are all tasked with bringing more light into the world through acts of kindness, Torah learning, and mitzvot.
Join the Tradition
Whether you're lighting candles for the first time or continuing a cherished family tradition, you are part of a global community bringing the light of Shabbat to the world. To learn more about the mitzvah of Shabbat candles, visit Chabad.org.
