Congregation T'Shuvat Yisrael

Messianic Jewish Tradition:  What does the Word say?

Blessing for lighting the Shabbat candles

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Sh'ma

With anticipation for the coming Shabbat we light the candles before sundown. In the strictest sense, we are instructed not to kindle a fire on Shabbat.  It's nice to begin this part of the Blessings in those last moments before Shabbat to make the most of our time in celebration with our Father.  Dim the other lights of the room and light the candles with "pomp and circumstance".  After they are lit, gaze into the flame to ponder the solemnity of the words about to be said. Enjoy the glowing warmth and peace from the candles, as this is a symbolic glimpse at the essence of Shabbat. Encircle the flame three times with your hands and arms, covering your eyes after the last pass; then recite the words of the blessing:

Hebrew Liturgy:

Baruch Atah Adonai,
Eloheynu Melech ha'olam,
Asher kid-shanu b'mistzvotav ve'tzvanu,
le'hadlik ner shel Shabbat.

English Liturgy:

Blessed are Thou, Lord our God,
King of the universe,
Who has sanctified us by Thy commandments, and commanded us to kindle the Shabbat lights.

When you feel moved to, you can add any additional blessing, but here are some suggestions:

The Lord is our light and our salvation.  In His name we kindle these Shabbat lights.

May the Shabbat lights bring into our home the beauty of truth and the radiance of God's love.

May the Lord bless us with Shabbat joy.

May the Lord bless us with Shabbat Holiness.

May the Lord bless us with Shabbat peace.

If the children are able, it's fun for them to "imitate" with their own set of candles and feel a sense of belonging in the Shabbat event.  Most often the woman of the home conducts this blessing, but a man may light the candles and recite the blessing as well.

Congregation T'Shuvat Yisrael

Blessing for lighting the Shabbat candles