Welcome Shabbos

How to light Shabbos candles.

Candle lighting welcomes Shabbos into the home. It happens shortly before sundown on Friday — about 18 minutes before — and includes a short blessing.

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What you need

Two candles (or two tea lights — one for each member of the household, traditionally women, with adjustments by community).
A safe, fire-resistant surface to set them on.
Matches or a lighter — kept ready before Shabbos starts.

How to light Shabbos candles

Make sure all preparations are complete.
A woman or girl in the home lights the candles before your local candle lighting time.
Cover your eyes with both hands.
Say the blessing.
Take a quiet moment to pray for what you need.
Uncover your eyes and welcome Shabbos.

Candle Lighting Blessing

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה׳ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֺתָיו, וְצִוָּנוּ לְהַדְלִיק נֵר שֶׁל שַׁבָּת.

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 candles of Shabbos.

After lighting candles, Shabbos has begun for the person who lit. From that moment, avoid weekday activities like phones, lights, cooking, and driving. See the full beginner Shabbos guide.