Shabbat Candles

It is a mitzvah, even a commandment for women to light candles to usher in the Sabbath the holy day, of rest. 
Some believe, women are obligated to usher in Shabbat and bring light into the world since due to the temptation of Eve eating the forbid fruit the world grow dark and terminated the garden of Eden. But naturally the spiritual nature of women best qualifies them to be responsible and honored with bringing the spirit of Shabbat into the home.

The most common custom is to light two candles for the two important Biblical references to Shabbat: "Remember the Sabbath" (Exodus 20:8) and "Observe the Sabbath" (Deuteronomy 5:12)
However, many people light an additional candle for each child in the family, and others light seven candles for each day of the week or for the Temple's seven-branched menorah.

After lighting the candles, the woman covers her eyes with her hands and recites the following blessing: "Barukh atah Adonai E1oheinu, melekh 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 made us holy through His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Sabbath light).

Only after the blessing is recited, the woman uncovers her eyes and looks at the light. By covering her eyes, the woman can focus fully on the blessing and can postpone the enjoyment of the fruits of the blessing (seeing the light) until after the blessing is recited.

Before every Shabbat and Jewish holiday candles are lit in a Jewish home. It is proper to beautify this Mitzvah with special candlesticks. A new pair of candlesticks can make an excellent housewarming present or perfect present to newlyweds.

Check out our unique collection of antique and new Candlesticks