Lighting Shabbat Candles

Every mitzvah that we do brings Divine energy and light into this world, but only the mitzvah of Shabbat candles merges that radiance with the physical glow of the candles.  Especially in these times of spiritual darkness, the lights of Shabbat illuminate our path so we will not stumble, regardless of the obstacles we face.

The act of lighting candles ushers in the peace of Shabbat, a foretaste of the ultimate peace of the Messianic era, when all of the inherent conflicts within creation will be resolved, and the underlying divine purpose will be revealed. Every woman who has lit Shabbat candles knows that feeling of instant relief that washes over you when the hectic Friday afternoon rush recedes, and the tranquility of Shabbat enters. The candles cast a captivating spell over the entire household, promoting peace and harmony, with after-effects that last the entire week.

The candle lighting is done by women and girls ages 3 and up, and is lit on the Friday evening and on the eve before the Jewish holidays. We make sure to light them before the time of sunset, when the actual Shabbat/festival comes in.

Check for the Halachic times in your area here.

The following is the blessing that is made on a regular Friday evening. For the blessings for the festivals or on a Shabbat that falls out on a festival, ask your local Chabad House or contact us.

Blessings Transliteration

Boruch Atoh Adonoi, Elo-heinu me-lech ha'olam, asher kideshanu bemitzvotas, vetzivanu lehadlik ner shel Shabbos Kodesh.

Blessings Translation

Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, Who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbos.