Friday Night Lights - Shabbos Edition

Very frequently new and newly observant Jews begin their journey into Jewish life by embracing Shabbat observance. Shabbat is our most sacred day. It is a day of rest and reflection. And the rituals that accompany the Sabbath are beautifully simple and meaningful. As darkness approaches each Friday night, we begin the holy day by lighting the Shabbos candles. Here is a brief overview of the "how" and "why" of this important mitzvah.

WHO lights Shabbat candles?

The privilege and responsibility for lighting Shabbat candles is granted to the women of the home. Typically the mother will light the candles. In some homes girls below the age of Bat Mitzvah are taught how to light candles as well, but the mitzvah belongs to women who are Bat Mitzvah age or older. If no women of age are present, a man should light the candles.

WHEN are Shabbat candles lit?

Candles should be lit eighteen minutes before sunset. They should never be lit after sunset since Shabbat would already have begun and kindling a fire is prohibited on Shabbat. (See the link below to find candle lighting times for your location.)

WHAT preparations must be made for lighting the candles?

Candles should be set in a location visible to the family, preferably on a fireproof plate or tray. (Safety first! Set them out of the reach of children.) Traditionally two candles are set. Some families have a custom to add an additional candle for each child in the family. (e.g. a family with three children would light five candles.) In some communities unmarried women light only one candle in stead of two. Check with your rabbi to learn the tradition in your community.

HOW are Shabbat candles light?

When everyone is ready to greet the Shabbat, it is customary to place a few coins in a pushkah (tzedakah box) to be given to charity. Light the candles. With hands extended make a circular motion over the candles three times, the cover your eyes. Recite the proper blessing:

                       

(Courtesy: aish.com)

While your eyes are still covered, it is a good time to offer a silent prayer for your family and others who may be in need. Many siddurim have suggested prayers that would be appropriate to use. Uncover your eyes and observe the candles for a moment. Shabbat has begun!

WHY are Shabbat candles lit?

There are a number of reasons given for lighting candles for Shabbat. (a) Shabbat bring peace to the home after the chaos of the work week. The light of the candles symbolizes a peaceful, tranquil home. (b) The candles are lit to honor the day. We welcome the Shabbat Queen with sacred light. (c) 

Shabbat candles lend beauty and an air of festivity to the home on this special day.

Many other questions may arise when you begin to fulfill this mitzvah. Check the links below for more information on candles lighting. And of course you should check with your rabbi. Wishing you and your loved one's a peaceful, restful and bright Shabbos!

Related links:
To Find Candle Lighting Times
Instructions and Blessings for Lighting Shabbat Candles
How to Light Candles