Symbol of Light and Peace: The Shabbos candles represent more than just physical illumination; they symbolize the spiritual light of the Shabbat, a time of calm, serenity, and reflection away from the distractions of the workweek. The soft glow of the candles transforms the home, creating an atmosphere that is warm, inviting, and sacred. This light serves as a visual reminder of the divine light that God created on the first day of the world.

Aesthetic Ritual: The act of lighting the candles is often accompanied by a prayer (the berachah) and a sense of anticipation, as it marks the transition from the mundane to the holy. For many families, the lighting of Shabbat candles is a ritual filled with love, reverence, and a sense of unity. The ritual itself, with the flicker of the candles, brings a sense of peace to the home, and the beauty of the moment is felt in the stillness and the quiet joy that precedes the arrival of Shabbat.

Family and Community: The lighting of the Shabbat candles is usually done by the woman of the house, a tradition that highlights her role in bringing light, both literally and figuratively, into the home. In some families, each member may light their own candles, creating a beautiful scene of multiple flames. This moment of lighting and prayer offers a sense of togetherness, and the beautiful flame of the candle represents the unity of family and community.

Significance of Shabbos Candles

Spiritual Transition: The lighting of the Shabbos candles marks the official transition from the workweek to the holiness of Shabbat. It is a way of setting apart the sacred time of Shabbat from the ordinary. According to Jewish law, the lighting of the candles is one of the 39 melachot (types of work) that are prohibited on Shabbat, and its timing must be precise, just before sunset, in order to properly usher in the day of rest.

The Blessing of Peace: The traditional prayer that is recited while lighting the Shabbos candles, “Baruch atah Hashem, Elokeinu Melech haolam, asher kiddishanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu lehadlik ner shel Shabbat,” means: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Sabbath light.” This prayer expresses gratitude for the commandment and asks for peace and blessing for the home and family during Shabbat.

Symbol of the Divine Presence: The candles are also viewed as a representation of the divine presence within the home. In the same way that the Menorah in the Holy Temple radiated spiritual light, the Shabbat candles radiate the holiness of the Sabbath. This brings a sense of divine closeness, and some Jewish teachings say that the light of the candles is connected to the Shechinah (the divine presence), which is particularly strong on Shabbat.

The Role of Women: The lighting of Shabbat candles has a unique and profound role for Jewish women. While men are also responsible for other mitzvot (commandments), the lighting of the Shabbat candles is traditionally a woman’s mitzvah. This elevates the role of women in Jewish life, and the lighting is often seen as an expression of their spiritual leadership in the home. Women often take great care and joy in this ritual, ensuring that their home is prepared to receive the blessings of Shabbat.

Welcoming the Sabbath Queen: Another powerful aspect of the Shabbos candles is the metaphor of Shabbat as a queen. In Jewish tradition, Shabbat is often personified as a queen, and lighting the candles is like welcoming her into the home. The flames of the candles symbolize the honor and reverence due to Shabbat, and the beauty of the candles serves as a fitting tribute to the queen of the week.

The Two Candles: It is customary to light at least two candles, though many people light more. The two candles are often interpreted as representing the commandments to “remember” and “observe” the Sabbath (as mentioned in the Ten Commandments), both of which are foundational to the observance of Shabbat. Some people also light additional candles for each family member or as a personal expression of spirituality.

Final Thoughts

The lighting of Shabbos candles is an act filled with both beauty and meaning. It is a spiritual, familial, and personal gesture that sets the tone for the entire Shabbat experience. Through the simple act of lighting candles, Jews affirm their connection to God, their heritage, and the sacred rhythm of time. In doing so, they invite light—both physical and spiritual—into their homes and into their lives, preparing for a peaceful and restful Shabbat.