Candle Lighting for Holidays

Question

Why do we light candles at the beginning of holidays?

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Answers

  1. The Just Ask! - AskTheRabbi.org Team

    The simple answer is because they bring light into the home. In days gone by, when the only source of light at night was candlelight, the candles added light and added a special dimension of harmony to the home.

    Today, with the advent of electricity, there may be less of a physical need for the candles, but our Sages teach that a flame is analogous to the soul. In the same way that a flame is always moving and trying to reach upwards, so too our souls must also be always reaching upwards to draw closer to God. The Festival days are days of intense spirituality and joy, and the candles serve as a reminder that our task in this world is to aspire to spiritual greatness.

    Best wishes from the AskTheRabbi.org Team