How Shabbat brings light into the whole week

by Leah Rosenberg
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Shabbat is a beautiful time to connect with God, the creator of the world. But what do we do with all that light? How do we bring it into the week?

Havdalah – The End of Shabbat

At nightfall, when Shabbat ends, the Jewish people recite what is known as Havdalah. It is a time to separate the holiness of Shabbat from the regular weekday. It is a respectful way to usher out the last 25 hours of the special day. There are unique customs to help our soul not feel too sad that the Shabbat is leaving. We say special words, smell special spices, we light a candle, the reciter of havdalah drinks wine or grape juice, and some have the custom to do this all with a tune. Some families also like to sing a song about the Messiah after they recite havdalah!

The Text

(English text Kveller.com)

Behold, God is my savior, I will trust God and not be afraid, for my strong faith and song of praise for God will be my salvation. You will draw water joyously from the wellsprings of salvation. Salvation is God’s; may Your blessing rest upon Your people. God of the heavenly armies is with us; the Lord of Ya’akov is a fortress protecting us. God of the heavenly armies, happy is the individual who trusts You. God, redeem us! The King will answer us on the day we call God. The Jews had light, happiness, joy and honor; may we have the same. I will raise the cup of salvation and call out in the name of the God.

The blessings that end the Havdalah:

Blessed are You, God, our Lord, King of the universe, Creator of the fruit of the vine. Blessed are You, God, our Lord, King of the universe, Creator of the different spices. Blessed are You, God, our Lord, King of the universe, Creator of the fire’s lights. Blessed are You, God, our Lord, King of the universe, who separates between the holy and the profane; between the light and dark; between Israel and the other nations; between the seventh day and the six days of the week. Blessed are You, God, who separates between the holy and the profane.

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