Often when we think about Jewish holidays, we think of Passover, Hanukkah, and other annual celebrations. Unlike these holidays, the Sabbath (Shabbat in Hebrew) is a Jewish celebration that occurs every week. It is central to Jewish life, and includes special blessings over candles, wine, challah, and more. The blessings below – recite them all or pick just one or two – can help us slow down, unwind, and truly set Shabbat apart from the rest of the days of the week, whether with centuries’ old customs and traditions or with new rituals and practices that fit our 21st century lives. . Learn more about Shabbat customs and rituals.
Erev Shabbat – Friday Night
Blessing Over the Candles
Blessing for Children
At the Shabbat Evening Meal
Introductory Lines to the Kiddush
Kiddush – Sanctification of the day over wine
HaMotzi – Blessing over bread before a meal
Birkat HaMazon – Blessings after the Meal
Psalm 126 – Shir HaMaalot
Birkat HaMazon (Grace after meals) – short version
Birkat HaMazon (Grace after meals) – long version
Yom Shabbat – Saturday
Havdallah Blessings for the Conclusion of Shabbat
Hinei El – Praising God
Blessings of the Havdallah
Hamavdil and Shavua Tov – Wishes for a good week ahead
Eliyahu HaNavi – Prayer for the Prophet Elijah to herald redemption
