Below are some of the essential ritual ingredients for celebrating a Friday night Shabbat meal. Click on the icons below to see and hear the blessings. Shabbat shalom!

This resource was created in partnership with OneTable. OneTable empowers people who don’t yet have a consistent Shabbat dinner practice to build one that feels authentic, sustainable and valuable.

Please note the accessible audio that can be found by clicking next to each of the pop-up blessings is automatically generated and unfortunately, it is incorrectly pronounced. The audio that you hear automatically is correct.

Shabbat Blessing Over the Candles

Shabbat is all about winding down, and what a better way to relax than by lighting the candles before dinner? Reciting blessings is one way to take part in this centuries-old tradition, and to fill the room with light, peace and happiness.

Take a deep breath, find comfort in those around you and focus on the present moment. Some people cover their eyes while giving their blessing over the Shabbat candles, closing and opening their eyes to reset and see the candles lit as if for the first time. Others may hover their hands over the candles, metaphorically gathering light from the fire. Do whatever’s comfortable for you.

Post-candle lighting is a great time to wish those around you a “Shabbat shalom” (good Sabbath) or to share words of gratitude and blessings.

Traditionally, children are “blessed” on Shabbat—but anyone can be blessed! Take the time to think reflect and decide what you’d like to share with those around you. Click on the image above to see and hear the blessings.

Shabbat Blessing Over the Wine

It isn’t a Jewish holiday without Kiddush—the blessing over wine or grape juice—and Shabbat is no different. Traditionally, this prayer is said twice over Shabbat: before Friday night dinner and Saturday lunch, but many people just say it on Friday evening. Kiddush is often recited in Hebrew or English, and all languages are welcome. The blessing signifies the importance of the day, and is a way for some to show appreciation to God for God’s creations. As you can see if you click on the wine in the image above, you can also bless the wine without mentioning God.

It can elevate your experience to have a special kiddush cup, whether it’s your most beloved antique glass, something you picked out yourself or any favorite glass you own. But it’s also totally fine if you’re drinking out of your child’s sippy cup, a paper cup, whatever—Kiddush provides an opportunity to make Shabbat your own.