The Havdalah Ceremony

Question

Hey Rabbi,

Some neighbors invited me over Saturday at nightfall to join them for “the havdalah ceremony.” Would you mind telling me what to expect so I can hopefully appreciate the ceremony? I’m sure they will explain some things but I feel better being somewhat prepared.

Thanks!

0

Answers

  1. The Just Ask! - AskTheRabbi.org Team

    When Shabbat ends at nightfall on Saturday, we mark the transition to the coming week with a special Havdalah ceremony. The word “Havdalah” means separation, referring to the separation between the inherent holiness of Shabbat and the lack of this holiness during the weekdays. The host leads the ceremony and the others present answer “Amen” to his blessings and participate throughout the ceremony.

    The ceremony begins with the host saying verses of praise and thanks to God. He holds a full cup of wine or grape juice in a silver cup. For example, based on the Book of Esther, the host and the others say, “The Jews had light, happiness, joy and honor. May it be for us as well!”

    The full cup is an expression of our hopes and prayers that the coming week will be overflowing with blessing. The host says the usual blessing for the wine/grape juice.

    Next, holding a box of spices, usually cloves, he says the appropriate blessing. He then breathes in the fragrance. The spices are passed around so that everyone can share in this pleasure. One of the reasons for the spices is based on Kabbalah. According to tradition, a person receives an extra soul on Shabbat to increase appreciation for the holiness of Shabbat. Since the extra soul departs at the end of Shabbat, the spices help to “revive” our souls, which are saddened due to the exit of Shabbat.

    Then, the host looks at the light from at least two burning wicks and says the blessing for the fire. Many have the custom to hold their fingernails towards the fire to benefit from it after the blessing. The fire commemorates the first fire, which was made by Adam for light on the night following the first Shabbat. The Midrash says that Adam and Eve had continuous light from the time of their creation until after Shabbat. When it became dark, Adam was inspired by Above to make a fire with two stones and said a blessing in gratitude. In addition, a practical aspect for this lighting is to help us carry the “light of Shabbat” into challenging workweek situations.

    The leader then drinks some or all of the liquid in the cup. If he offers, the others may drink if they wish. Many have the custom to dip their pinkies in the liquid that has spilled onto the saucer, and dab near their eyes as a sign for seeing a good week to come. Wishes of “Shavua tov” – “Have a good week” – are customary. You may be invited to eat something with the family, often a light meal, which is not technically a part of the Havdalah ceremony, but serves to honorably usher out the Shabbat Queen as the new workweek begins.

    I recommend trying the follow along with an ArtScroll Siddur, if available. I hope you enjoy the experience and please feel free to write back anytime with any other questions about Judaism.

    Best wishes from the AskTheRabbi.org Team