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The Significance of Lighting Candles in Jewish Tradition: Yahrzeit and Yizkor

In Jewish customs and traditions, the ritual of lighting candles holds great importance. From welcoming Shabbat on Friday evenings to commemorating the miracle of Chanukah, candles play a significant role in marking sacred times and transitions. However, the focus of this article is on the tradition of lighting candles for Yahrzeit and Yizkor, which serves as a reminder of the lives of loved ones who have passed away.

What is Yahrzeit?

Yahrzeit is a Jewish custom that involves lighting a candle on the anniversary of a loved one's death. The candle, which burns for 24 hours, is typically lit at sundown on the anniversary of the passing and is left to extinguish on its own. This tradition is observed to remember the life and legacy of the deceased and to keep their memory alive. If candles are not available, an electric memorial light may be used as an alternative.

When to Light a Yahrzeit Candle

A Yahrzeit candle is lit on the anniversary of a loved one's death, as well as on four annual Jewish holidays: Yom Kippur, Shemini Atzeret, Passover, and Shavuot. This tradition serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring memory of the deceased. The word "Yahrzeit" originates from the German words "Jahr" (year) and "Zeit" (time), meaning anniversary or time of year.

The Symbolism of Candles in Judaism

In Jewish tradition, candles are often seen as a symbol of the soul. As stated in Chapter 20, Verse 27 of the Book of Proverbs, "The soul of man is the candle of God." This is why candles are an integral part of Jewish customs and traditions.

Yahrzeit Candles for Yizkor and Kaddish

Yizkor, which means "remember," is a memorial service recited during the four holidays mentioned earlier. A Yahrzeit candle is typically lit prior to the start of the fast on Yom Kippur and before sunset on the other holidays. These candles are often packaged in glass jars and can be purchased at Judaica stores, supermarkets, or online.

Yahrzeit vs. Shiva Candles

It's worth noting that Yahrzeit candles are different from Shiva candles, which are lit immediately after a loved one's passing and burn for seven days. Both types of candles promote reflection and remembrance, but they serve different purposes.

Honoring Loved Ones at Synagogues

At Shabbat services in synagogues around the world, including Temple Beth El in Boca Raton, the names of loved ones are recited in their memory prior to the reading of the Kaddish prayer. Anyone can request that the name of their loved one be read at the Shabbat service closest to their annual Yahrzeit date.

Observing Yahrzeit

There are many online date calculators available to help determine the next Yahrzeit date of a loved one, depending on whether you wish to observe the Hebrew date of death or the English (secular) date of death.