Light · Friday · before sunset

Welcome Shabbos with light

Create a visible threshold between the working week and Shabbos.

← All Shabbos experiences

01

Prepare with ease.

Keep nearby

  • Candles
  • Candle holders
  • Matches or a lighter
  • The blessing text, if helpful

Before Shabbos

  • Check the local candle-lighting time.
  • Set out the candles in the morning.
  • Leave enough time to arrive without rushing.

02

Let the moment unfold.

  1. 01

    Gather near the candles before the local lighting time.

  2. 02

    Light according to your family or community custom.

  3. 03

    Say the blessing if it is your practice.

  4. 04

    Pause for prayer, gratitude, or one quiet breath.

The light does more than illuminate a room. It announces that this time will be held differently.

03

Questions people often carry.

What if I have never lit before?

Begin by learning the timing and local custom with a rabbi or mentor. Preparing the space can itself make Friday feel different.

Where can I find this week’s time?

Use the Shabbos Times finder on this site and confirm local custom with your community.