As the sun dips below the horizon on Friday evening, the prayer for lighting Shabbat candles ushers in a sacred pause from the week’s labor. This simple yet profound act marks the beginning of the Sabbath, a day of rest and spiritual renewal. You might feel a mix of anticipation and calm as you prepare to recite these ancient words.
Lighting the candles is more than a ritual; it is a moment of connection. The prayer itself is short, but its meaning runs deep. It welcomes peace into your home and sets apart the holy time of Shabbat from the ordinary week.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. You will learn the exact words, the proper steps, and the heart behind the tradition. Whether you are new to Shabbat or looking to deepen your practice, you are in the right place.
Prayer For Lighting Shabbat Candles
The central prayer is a blessing, known in Hebrew as a brachah. It acknowledges God’s commandment to kindle the Shabbat light. The words are traditionally recited after lighting the candles, because the blessing precedes the action in Jewish law.
Here is the full prayer in Hebrew, transliteration, and English. Take your time to read each version. You can use the one that feels most comfortable for you.
Hebrew Text
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָּנוּ לְהַדְלִיק נֵר שֶׁל שַׁבָּת.
Transliteration
Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel Shabbat.
English Translation
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the light of Shabbat.
Notice the flow: you first light the candles, then you cover your eyes and recite the blessing. This order is intentional. By covering your eyes, you delay “seeing” the light until after you say the words. This makes the blessing the first thing you experience.
After the blessing, many people add a personal prayer. Some ask for peace in the home, health for family, or wisdom for the week ahead. You can speak from your heart in any language you know.
Step-By-Step Guide To Lighting Shabbat Candles
Performing this mitzvah involves a few simple steps. Each step carries its own meaning and intention. Follow this sequence to create a smooth and meaningful experience.
- Prepare the candles. Place at least two candles in the candlesticks. Some families light one for each member of the household. Use any type of candle, but traditional ones are often white and long-burning.
- Set the mood. Clear the table where you will light. Some people cover the challah bread and set out the Kiddush cup beforehand. This shows that Shabbat has already begun in your mind.
- Light the candles. Strike the match and light the wicks. Many people use a single match to light all candles, passing it from one wick to the next. Let the flames burn steadily.
- Wave your hands. After lighting, you wave your hands over the flames three times in a circular motion. This gesture draws the light toward you and symbolizes welcoming the Sabbath spirit.
- Cover your eyes. Bring your hands to your face, covering your eyes. This prevents you from seeing the light until after the blessing is said.
- Recite the blessing. Say the prayer for lighting Shabbat candles. Speak clearly and slowly. If you are using transliteration, read it aloud with confidence.
- Uncover your eyes. After finishing the blessing, remove your hands and look at the candles. Many people then say “Shabbat Shalom” to those around them.
That is the entire process. It takes less than two minutes, but the effect lasts all weekend. The glow of the candles reminds you that you have entered a different kind of time.
When To Light The Candles
Timing is important. Shabbat candles must be lit before sunset on Friday evening. The exact time varies by location and season. You can check a local Jewish calendar or use an online app to find the precise moment.
If you cannot light before sunset, some authorities allow lighting up to a certain point after. But the ideal is to light 18 minutes before sunset. This buffer ensures you do not accidentally violate the Sabbath by lighting after it begins.
Once the candles are lit, Shabbat has officially started. You should not light any more fires or perform any of the 39 forbidden labors until Saturday night.
How Many Candles To Light
The minimum is two candles. These represent two key ideas: “remember” and “guard” the Sabbath day. One candle for each concept.
Many families add extra candles. Common practices include:
- One for each child in the household
- One for each parent
- One for each grandparent or deceased relative
- A single candle for the entire family
There is no wrong number. The goal is to bring light into your home. If you are just starting, two candles are perfectly fine. You can always add more later as your practice grows.
The Spiritual Meaning Behind The Prayer
The prayer for lighting Shabbat candles is packed with meaning. Every word was chosen carefully by the sages. Understanding these layers can transform your experience from routine to profound.
The blessing begins with “Baruch atah Adonai” — Blessed are You, Lord. This direct address creates a personal relationship. You are not just reciting words; you are speaking to the Creator of the universe.
“Eloheinu Melech ha’olam” means “our God, King of the universe.” This reminds you that God is both close to you and sovereign over all existence. The combination is humbling and comforting at the same time.
“Asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav” — who has sanctified us with His commandments. This phrase elevates the act of lighting candles. It is not a chore; it is a holy command that connects you to generations of Jews before you.
“V’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel Shabbat” — and commanded us to kindle the light of Shabbat. The word “ner” means candle or lamp. Light is a universal symbol of the soul, wisdom, and divine presence.
When you say this prayer, you are joining a chain that stretches back to Mount Sinai. You are also creating a moment of holiness in your own home. That is powerful.
Why Women Traditionally Light The Candles
In many Jewish homes, women light the Shabbat candles. This custom comes from the Talmud, which says that women are particularly responsible for this mitzvah. The reason given is that women were instrumental in bringing light into the world through their role in the home.
However, men can also light the candles. If a woman is not present, a man should light them. In some families, everyone gathers around and the lighting is done by whoever is most comfortable. The key is that the act is done with intention.
Today, many households share the honor. A mother might light with her daughter, or a father with his son. The prayer for lighting Shabbat candles is for anyone who wants to welcome Shabbat.
Common Questions About The Prayer
You might have questions about the exact wording or the proper procedure. Here are answers to the most frequent ones.
Can I Say The Prayer In English?
Yes, absolutely. The prayer is most commonly said in Hebrew, but English is perfectly acceptable. God understands all languages. The important thing is that you mean the words you say. If English helps you connect, use it.
What If I Make A Mistake?
Do not worry. If you stumble over a word or forget a line, simply continue. You can start over if you want, but it is not required. The act of lighting with good intention is what matters most. Perfection is not the goal.
Do I Need To Light Candles Every Friday?
Ideally, yes. Shabbat candles are a weekly mitzvah. However, if you miss a week, do not give up. Just start again the next Friday. Consistency builds habit, but every single Shabbat is a fresh opportunity.
Can I Light Candles If I Am Traveling?
Yes. You can light candles wherever you are staying. If you are in a hotel, use a safe surface like a metal tray. If you are visiting friends, ask if you can light in their home. The prayer for lighting Shabbat candles travels with you.
What If I Am Not Jewish?
Many non-Jews participate in Shabbat dinners with friends or family. You can still light candles and say the blessing if you are invited to do so. It is a gesture of respect and participation. Always follow the host’s guidance.
Adding Personal Meaning To Your Lighting
The basic prayer is fixed, but you can add your own touches. This makes the ritual feel more personal and alive. Here are some ideas to try.
- Set an intention. Before you light, think of one thing you want to leave behind from the week. It could be stress, a disagreement, or a worry. Visualize it fading as the flame rises.
- Say a silent prayer. After the blessing, add a few words for someone you love. You can pray for healing, success, or peace. Keep it short and specific.
- Involve your children. Let them help place the candles or hand you the matches. Even very young children can stand nearby and feel the warmth. This builds positive associations.
- Play soft music. Some families sing “Lecha Dodi” or another Shabbat song before lighting. The music sets a calm tone and prepares everyone’s heart.
- Use special candlesticks. If you have family heirlooms or a set you love, use them. The physical objects carry memories and make the moment more special.
These small additions do not change the prayer for lighting Shabbat candles. They just wrap it in your own story. Over time, the ritual becomes uniquely yours.
What To Do After Lighting
Once the candles are lit and the blessing is said, Shabbat has begun. You should not do any work that is forbidden on the Sabbath. This includes using electricity, writing, or cooking. Instead, focus on rest and connection.
Many families go straight to the dinner table. The evening meal is a central part of Shabbat. You might say Kiddush over wine, wash hands for bread, and enjoy a festive meal together.
If you are alone, you can still have a meaningful evening. Read a book, take a walk, or call a friend. The candles will burn for at least a few hours, reminding you of the peace you have invited in.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even experienced people make small errors. Here are a few to watch out for, so you can feel confident in your practice.
- Lighting after sunset. This is the most common mistake. Always check the time in advance. Set a reminder on your phone if needed.
- Reciting the blessing before lighting. Remember the order: light first, then cover your eyes, then say the prayer. If you say the blessing first, you have not fulfilled the mitzvah correctly.
- Blowing out the candles. On Shabbat, you cannot extinguish a flame. Let the candles burn until they go out on their own. Use candles that burn for at least three hours.
- Using candles that are too short. If the candles burn out before the meal ends, it is okay, but longer candles are better. They provide light and atmosphere for the entire evening.
- Forgetting to cover your eyes. This step is easy to skip when you are nervous. Make it a habit to bring your hands to your face right after lighting.
These mistakes are minor. Do not let them stop you from trying. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some additional questions people often have about the prayer for lighting Shabbat candles.
What is the exact wording of the prayer for lighting Shabbat candles?
The exact wording is: Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel Shabbat. In English: Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the light of Shabbat.
Can I say the prayer for lighting Shabbat candles if I am not observant?
Yes. The prayer is for anyone who wants to welcome Shabbat. You do not need to be fully observant in all areas of Jewish law. Lighting candles is a beautiful way to start connecting with the tradition.
Do I need to say the prayer out loud?
It is best to say it out loud, even if only in a whisper. Hearing the words helps you focus. But if you are in a situation where you cannot speak aloud, saying it silently in your heart is also acceptable.
What if I forget to say the prayer before uncovering my eyes?
If you uncover your eyes before saying the blessing, you can still say it. The ideal order is to say it while your eyes are covered, but if you forget, just say the prayer right away. The light is still holy.
Is there a specific time to say the prayer for lighting Shabbat candles?
Yes. It must be said after lighting the candles and before sunset on Friday evening. The exact time depends on your location. Use a reliable calendar to know when sunset occurs.
Making It A Weekly Habit
Starting a new ritual can feel awkward at first. You might fumble with the matches or forget the words. That is normal. The key is to keep doing it week after week.
Set a specific time each Friday. Put it on your calendar. Lay out your candles and candlesticks earlier in the day so they are ready. When the time comes, take a deep breath and begin.
After a few weeks, the prayer for lighting Shabbat candles will feel like second nature. You will look forward to that quiet moment. The candles will become a beacon of peace in your week.
If you miss a week, do not be discouraged. Just start again the next Friday. Consistency matters more than perfection. Each lighting is a fresh start.
Share the experience with others. Invite a friend to join you. Teach your children. The more people who experience the light, the more the tradition grows.
The prayer for lighting Shabbat candles is a gift. It gives you permission to stop, to breathe, and to connect with something greater than yourself. Let the flame remind you that holiness is always within reach.
As you stand before the candles each week, you are not alone. Millions of people around the world are doing the same thing at the same time. You are part of a community that spans centuries and continents.
So light the candles. Say the words. Welcome Shabbat. And let the peace settle into your home and your heart.