Archive for 2017
Ritual Hand-Washing: A Clear Explanation
This brief yet thorough article clearly explains the origins and directions for the ritual of washing hands prior to eating bread at
Hand-Washing before a Meal 101
This colloquially-written, point-form article shares the basics of the ritual hand-washing that takes place prior to eating bread at any meal,
Washing for Bread: Symbolism, How To, FAQ & Reflections
In this article, Lori Palatnik explains the deep symbolism behind the hand-washing ritual and provides a straight forward guide as
Shabbat Sweet: A Unique Melody for Shabbat Candle Lighting
In this video, Billy Kaplan offers a unique rendition of the blessing over the Shabbat candles (starting at 1:05), including
Covering Our Eyes During Shabbat Candle Lighting
This post explains the halachic reasoning behind the popular custom of covering one’s eyes while reciting the blessing after lighting
Shabbat Candle Lighting: An Introduction
The following article briefly explains the basic structure of the candle lighting ceremony and some related customs, including the text
Electric Shabbat Candles: It Can Be Done!
This lengthy, comprehensive article provides information about “LeeNer,” a product which provides a way to light electric candles for Shabbat in
Post-Candle Lighting “Tkhine”: An 18th Century Prayer
This short “tkhine” (supplication) is a para-liturgical prayer that is meant to be recited by women just after lighting Shabbat candles,
Lighting Candles for Peace: A Sheikha and a Rabbi
This short poem, written by two women – a Jewish rabbi and Muslim sheikha – calls on readers to light a candle in
Lighting Candles: A Spiritual Cure-all
In this thought-provoking article, psychologist, Dr. Miriam Biber, explores the unique spiritual power of lighting the Shabbat candles through personal anecdotes and biblical, Talmudic