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Shabbat Traditions Shabbat is a day
of rest, set aside from all other days. Shabbat begins on sundown on
Friday night and ends on Saturday night at sundown. It is a day that
is set apart from the rest of the week.
Light the Candles
Shabbat is ushered in by lighting candles (at least two) 18 minutes
before sunset on Friday night. Two candles are lit, representing two
commandments: Zakhor (to
remember) and Shamor (to
observe). Candle lighting times
 vary
from season to season and by location. Traditionally, this is honor
is given to the woman of the house, but anyone can do it. Having
additional candles for older children to light is fun and gets
everyone participating. The candles are lit and then
the
blessing is said over them.Blessing of
the Children
Share a special moment with your kids. Put your hand on their head
and say
the blessings.
Kiddish
Before the Shabbat meal we say
a blessing
over the wine. It celebrates the creation of all things and
HaShem's freeing us from the bondage of Egypt to live as free people
and worship Him.Hamotzi
Blessing
over the bread to begin the meal. We bless two loaves of Challah
(bread). The reason for two loaves is that when we wondered in the
desert we were given a double portion of manah just before Shabbat
so we would have enough to eat and would not have to "work" to
gather our food.
Festive meal
This is the first of three festive meals that we have during
Shabbat.Bichat HaMazon
Blessing after the meal. This is the blessing that we use every day
after meals. On Shabbat it is said taking our time to reflect on the
words. Some families chant the blessing and others simply say the
words.
Torah Study
Every week we have a new Parsha (portion) of the Torah to
read. Take time to talk about the Torah portion with your children.
Tell them the story and discuss it with them. How would they do
things differently if they were faced with that situation? What do
they think about the people in the story?
Festive meal
This is the second of three festive meals that we have during
Shabbat
Bichat HaMazon
Blessing after the meal.Shabbat Day
Most communities have a short service on Friday night and a longer
one in the morning on Shabbat.
Torah Study / Rest
Shabbat is a day to rest and have time with the family. Take long
walks, study the Torah, play games with the kids and relax.
Festive meal
This is the third of three festive meals that we have during
Shabbat.
Bichat HaMazon
Blessing after the mealHavdallah
Havdallah
loses Shabbat the same way it started with lighting candles. A
special candle is used with several wicks. The braded candle
symbolizes the unifying force of Shabbat.
There are many different traditions in Judiasm and many others in
different families and communities. Find the ones that you are most
comfortable with and meet the needs of your family. Have a wonderful
and joyous Shabbat! |
