The act of lighting candles is what marks the beginning of most Jewish holidays, and of Shabbat. Many families have heirloom or special candlesticks that they reserve for this purpose. Traditionally, two candles are lit, though different families have different customs.
Candle lighting takes place at sundown. On Shabbat, after the candles have been lit, it is customary wave one’s hands over the flames three times, and then cover one’s eyes to say the blessing. Some people follow the blessing with a private prayer or silent personal reflection.
On Shabbat we say:
Barukh ata Adonai Eloheinu Melekh haolam asher kidshanu bemitzvotav v’tzivanu lehadlik ner shel Shabbat.
Praised are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe whose commandments add holiness to our lives and who gave us the commandment to kindle Shabbat light.
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On other holidays we say:
Barukh ata Adonai Eloheinu Melekh haolam asher kidshanu bemitzvotav v’tzivanu lehadlik ner shel yom tov.
Praised are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe whose commandments add holiness to our lives and who gave us the commandment to kindle light for the holiday.
Click here for Shabbos candlelighting times.
Adonai
Pronounced: ah-doe-NYE, Origin: Hebrew, a name for God.
Shabbat
Pronounced: shuh-BAHT or shah-BAHT, Origin: Hebrew, the Sabbath, from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday.
