In biblical times, women lit a lamp that had to last them through the evening, since lighting a fire was work they would not do during Shabbat. This tradition has been carried forward through Jewish history. Still today, we begin Shabbat on Friday evening by lighting the candles and saying a blessing.
You can buy candles that are marked "Shabbat candles" in many supermarkets, though any candles are fine. These candles are left to burn down, so make sure you find a good fire-safe spot for them. Lighting the candles and reciting the blessing brings Shabbat into your home.
For most blessings, you say the blessing then do the action. However, as Shabbat begins once you light the candles (with the prohibition about lighting fire), it is traditional to light the candles and then cover your eyes to hide their light while saying the blessing. Many have the additional custom of waving the hands toward the face, as though scooping up the holiness of the light and the day.
The blessing is:
Ba-rukh a-ta A-don-ai El-o-hey-nu Mel-ekh ha-o-olam, a-sher kid-sha-nu b’mitz-vo-tav vitz-i-va-nu l’had’lik ner shel Shab-bat.
Blessed are You, Lord our God, Ruler of the universe, who has sanctified us with Your commandments and commanded us to light the Sabbath lights. (A traditional translation.)
Holy One of Blessing, Your Presence fills creation. You make us holy with Your commandments and calling us to light the lights of Shabbat. (An alternative translation.)
After the candles have been blessed, remember not to blow them out.
Return to the Guide to Shabbat and Havdalah for Interfaith Families Resource Guide.
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