Hand Made Silver (ST925)Shabbat Candles Stick

Shabbat candles (Hebrew: נרות שבת‎) are lit on Friday evening before sunset to welcome the Jewish Sabbath. Traditionally, this practice is performed by the woman of the household, though a man may do so in her absence. After lighting the candles, she waves her hands over them, covers her eyes, and recites a blessing.

The first complete text of this blessing is found in the 9th-century Siddur of Rav Amram. It is believed that Jewish women in Europe lit Shabbat lamps without a blessing until the 11th century, when a blessing was introduced, based on the older Chanukah menorah blessing. 

Typically, two candles are lit, with an additional candle for each child in some homes. This act honors Shabbat (כבוד שבת) and promotes shalom bayit (שלום בית), or domestic peace. In Yiddish, it is known as licht bentschen or licht tsinden.

Candles must be lit 18 to 20 minutes before sunset, though some customs allow for lighting up to 40 minutes earlier, depending on local geography.