Reb Zalman Schachter Shalomi: Shabbat Candle Lighting as a Lesson in Faith
This interview describes how watching his mother light Shabbat candles was a formative spiritual experience for Reb Zalman Schacther Shalomi,
Sacred Ritual: Lighting Shabbat Candles
This short article serves as an introduction to the basics of the candle lighting ceremony, including who lights candles, with what
The Power of Light in Judaism
Inspired by both nature and Jewish mysticism, this short article explores the physical and spiritual power of light in Jewish tradition
The Meaning Behind the Flames
In this comprehensive article, Rhona Lewis shares many of the deep spiritual and kabbalistic teachings behind the mitzvah of lighting
An Academic Approach to the Meaning of Shabbat Candles
In this highly sourced academic article, Dr. Ismar Schorsch explores how and why lighting Shabbat candles is of paramount importance in
Shabbat Candles: Why is it Called ‘A Women’s Mitzvah?’
This article, reprinted on My Jewish Learning from JOFA, the Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance, mentions a variety of candle lighting customs,
A Brief Introduction to the Grace After Meals
This short post offers a basic overview of the Grace After Meals, including its biblical sources, an explanation of its
Why Say Bircat Hamazon? A Halachic and Spiritual Approach from Maimonides
In this ten-minute video featured on Chabad.org, Rabbi Mendel Kaplan discusses the halachic and spiritual significance of the Grace After
“Benching” 101: The Origin, Stucture, Customs and History of the Grace After Meals
This comprehensive introductory article by Kate Palley provides a thorough explanation for people of all knowledge levels on the origin, structure, customs, and history
An Esoteric, Historical and Halachic Analysis of the Grace After Meals
This 46 minute lecture from Chabad.org is an in-depth exploration of some esoteric, historical and halachic ideas around the Grace After