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Lighting the Festive Candles

Sukkot

It is a tradition to give charity before kindling the festival lights.

Meditation before lighting the candles. (On Friday, add the words in brackets)

Master of the Universe: I am about to fulfil the commandment of lighting lights (in honour of the Sabbath and) in honour of the festival.

May You, in the merit of this commandment, bestow on me and my family a full life. Be gracious to us. May You bless us with many blessings, and cause Your Presence to dwell among us.

Add the words in brackets if you have children

Compassionate Father, extend Your lovingkindness to me and my loved ones (and grant me the privilege of raising my children) so that they walk before You in the ways of the upright, holding fast to Your Torah and to good deeds.

Keep far from us any shame, grief and sorrow. Set peace, light and joy in our home, for with You is the source of life, in Your light, we see light. Amen.

After lighting the candles, cover your eyes with your hands, and say the following (On Friday add the words in brackets)

Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, King of the Universe, who has made us holy through His commandments, and has commanded us to light (the Sabbath light and) the light of the festival light.

Blessed are you, Lord our G-d, King of the Universe, who has given us life, sustained us, and brought us to this time.

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