The lighting of the Shabbat candles

‘Hadlakat Nerot Shabbat’, or the lighting of Shabbat candles. This is a central ritual observed every Friday at sunset to mark the beginning of the sacred day of rest, Shabbat.

Performed by a woman and her daughters, Hadlakat Nerot Shabbat involves lighting at least two special candles, usually placed on a Shabbat table in the home.

Before lighting the candles, specific blessings, known as the “blessings for lighting the Shabbat candles”, are recited. These blessings express gratitude to God for the sanctification of Shabbat and the opportunity to celebrate this special day.

Once the candles are lit, the person who lit them may take a few moments to meditate, pray or recite specific prayers to welcome Shabbat and invoke peace, serenity and blessing upon the family and the home.

The lighting of the Shabbat candles plays a central role in the sanctification of Shabbat and in creating an atmosphere of holiness and peace in the home. The lit candles represent spiritual light and symbolise the distinction between Shabbat and the other days of the week.

This ritual is an opportunity for the family to come together, to connect spiritually and to mark the beginning of a time of rest, prayer, festive meals and reflection. It is regarded as an act of gratitude to God for the blessings received and a way of refocusing on family and spiritual values.