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Candle Lighting Questions and Answers

A collection of FAQs on the topic of Shabbat and Jewish holiday candle lighting. Find out why Shabbat candles are primarily a women's mitzvah, which candles are kosher for Shabbat and holiday use, and much more!

Why Do Women Wave Their Hands over the Shabbat Candles?
I saw my mother and grandmother do it, but no one can explain it to me, other than saying we are bringing in the Shabbat energy.
Where Does the Torah Say to Light Shabbat Candles?
The most precious things in life are said silently.
Recite the Blessing Before or After Performing a Mitzvah?
Generally, blessings are recited before performing a mitzvah—such as before eating matzah or before lighting the Chanukah candles. There are two exceptions. however.
Do Young Girls Light Shabbat and Holiday Candles?
The rabbi in my synagogue tells me that my daughter should begin lighting Shabbat candles. My very traditional grandmother disagrees. Can you please enlighten me?
Holiday Candle Lighting on Saturday Night
I know that we light holiday candles on the first two nights of Passover. But what happens when the first day of Passover falls on Shabbat, and the second night of Passover begins on Saturday? Does that change things with the lighting on Saturday night?
Welcome to our candle-lighting section, where you will find the details and practicalities of lighting Shabbat candles, along with the meaning, spirituality and power of doing so . . .
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