Two Shabbos candles (any white candles work), candlesticks or sturdy holders, matches or a lighter, and a place where you can leave them burning safely until they go out on their o…
What you need
Two Shabbos candles (any white candles work), candlesticks or sturdy holders, matches or a lighter, and a place where you can leave them burning safely until they go out on their own.
When to light
Light 18 minutes before sunset on Friday. Your local Shabbos times are on the homepage — enter your ZIP and you'll see the exact moment. Once you light, Shabbos has begun for you.
How to light
Light both candles. Wave your hands toward your face three times in a circular motion. Cover your eyes with your hands. Say the blessing. Take a quiet moment for yourself, your family, anything you want to bring into Shabbos. Open your eyes — the candles are now Shabbos candles, and Shabbos has begun.
What you say
Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, asher kid'shanu b'mitzvotav, v'tzivanu l'hadlik ner shel Shabbat. ("Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to light the Shabbos candles.")
What happens next
Don't blow them out. Don't move them. Let them burn down on their own. The light is part of the day.
Try one Shabbos. We’ll guide you through it.
Find your local times, follow a step-by-step packet, and keep one full Shabbos — even if it’s your first.
