In Jewish tradition, lighting Shabbat candles marks the transition into the Sabbath. Symbolically, the flames represent peace (shalom bayit), divine illumination, and the joy of welcoming the divine presence into the home. It is a deliberate pause to separate sacred time from the mundane workweek.
1. Shalom Bayit (Peace in the Home)
According to the Talmud, lighting Shabbat candles dispels both physical and spiritual darkness, creating a tranquil and harmonious atmosphere. Tradition teaches that candlelight evokes a connection between souls, fostering togetherness and dispelling the friction that can happen during the workweek.
2. Remembrance and Observance
Traditionally, a minimum of two candles are lit to represent two different biblical concepts:
- Remember (Zakhor): Symbolizes the commandment in Exodus to “remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy”.
- Observe (Shamor): Symbolizes the commandment in Deuteronomy to “observe the Sabbath day”.
- Note: Some families also add an extra candle for each child in the family.
3. Connecting to the Divine Soul
In Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah), the flame represents the human soul, as stated in the Book of Proverbs: “The lamp of God is the soul of man.” Lighting the candles bridges the gap between our physical world and spiritual holiness, serving as a reminder that human beings are meant to elevate the material world through spiritual actions.
4. The Action of “Drawing in” the Light
During the ritual, the blessing is recited after the candles are lit to avoid initiating work once the Sabbath has officially begun. Lighting the candles ushers in the Sabbath, so the person doing the lighting covers their eyes while reciting the blessing. When they open their eyes, they sweep their hands toward themselves three times over the flames. This symbolic gesture is meant to draw the warmth, light, and blessing of Shabbat directly into their home and heart
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