✨ Overview
The Sabbath is a time of rest, remembrance, and renewal — a celebration that brings the whole family together.
Three symbolic elements mark the Sabbath table:
| Symbol | Represents |
|---|---|
| Candles | The Father, source of light and creation |
| Bread | The Son, the Living Bread from heaven |
| Wine or Grape Juice | The Holy Spirit, the Living Water and joy of salvation |
Two loaves of bread remind us of the Old and New Covenants, united in Christ.
🕯️ Lighting the Sabbath Candles
The Sabbath begins at sundown on Friday evening, as Genesis teaches:
“And the evening and the morning were the first day.”
The woman of the house lights the candles no later than 18 minutes before sundown, symbolizing the light entering the home.
Steps for Candle Lighting
- The lady of the house lights the candles.
- She prays for her family.
- She recites the blessing: “Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to be a light to the nations and who gave us Jesus, the Light of the world.”
This moment welcomes the Sabbath — a time of peace and divine presence.
🍷 The Kiddush (Sanctification of the Sabbath)
Traditionally led by the man of the house, though the woman may lead if he is absent.
While holding a glass of wine or grape juice, he reads:
Genesis 1:31 – 2:3
“And God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good… And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it.”
Blessings
“Blessed art Thou, Adonai our God, King of the universe, Who is the true fruit of the vine — Jesus.”
(Everyone responds: Amen)
“Blessed are You, LORD, King of the Universe, who made us holy with His commandments and favored us, and gave us His holy Sabbath, in love and favor, to be our heritage…”
Afterward, everyone shares from the cup — a reminder that God brought us out of Egypt (sin) and made us holy through Jesus.
🍞 Blessing the Bread and Water
- The man or woman blesses the bread: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, Master of the universe, Thank You, Lord, for the Living Bread from heaven.” (Amen)
- Then, recognizing Jesus as the Living Water: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, Master of the universe, Thank You for the Living Water.” (Amen)
🍽️ Enjoy the Meal
Share the meal together in gratitude and joy.
Let conversation be peaceful, remembering that the Sabbath is a gift — not a burden.
🕯️ Closing the Sabbath
When the meal is finished, gently blow out the candles as a symbol of rest completed and light carried into the coming week.
🌙 In One Sentence
The Sabbath celebration is a rhythm of light, bread, and wine — a family moment that honors the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, reminding us that rest is found in Jesus.
