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Preparing for Shabbat: A Guide for Beginners

Shabbat, the day of rest, is one of the most important observances in Jewish life. It begins at sunset on Friday and continues until nightfall on Saturday. Preparing for Shabbat is not just about physical preparations; it’s also a spiritual act that enhances our experience of the day. In this article, we’ll explore the key steps involved in preparing for Shabbat, ensuring you can enjoy its peace and sanctity fully.

The Meaning of Shabbat

Shabbat is a time to connect with family, community, and spirituality. It is a day of rest that commemorates God’s creation of the world, as described in the Book of Genesis. On this special day, we refrain from creative work (melacha) and engage in activities that nourish our spirit, such as prayer, learning, family time, and enjoying festive meals.

Planning Ahead: Pre-Shabbat Preparations

Effective preparation for Shabbat begins well before the sun sets on Friday. Here are some essential steps to consider:

• Menu Planning: Decide on the meals you will prepare for Shabbat in advance. Traditional Friday night meals often include challah, wine, and a meat or chicken dish, along with side dishes. Saturday’s lunch may include leftovers from Friday or a different meal.
• Grocery Shopping: Make a list of all the ingredients you need and shop well before Shabbat. Remember that you’re not allowed to shop, cook, or perform work on Shabbat itself.
• Cooking: Ideally, all cooking should be completed before Shabbat begins. You can use a slow cooker (on Shabbat mode) for certain dishes, but it’s important to know halachic details [ASK FOR CLARIFICATION].
• Challah Preparation: Bake or purchase challah before Shabbat. It’s a mitzvah to have two loaves for the Friday evening meal to symbolize the double portion of manna that fell in the desert.
• Setting the Table: Set your table with your best dishes, candles, wine cups, and utensils before Shabbat starts. This creates a special atmosphere for the meals.

Spiritual Preparations

While physical preparations are vital, spiritual readiness is equally important. Here are some ways to prepare spiritually for Shabbat:

• Cleaning Your Home: A clean and tidy home reflects the beauty and sanctity of Shabbat. Take time to clean and organize your space, creating a welcoming environment.
• Personal Reflection: Spend some time in personal reflection. Think about the week that has passed, the challenges you’ve faced, and what you hope to achieve in the coming days. Consider reciting Psalms or other prayers that resonate with you.
• Before Shabbat Prayers: Engage in the pre-Shabbat prayers, like the Friday evening service at your synagogue or with your family at home. If duty calls and you cannot make it, creating a moment of prayer around the Shabbat table is meaningful.

Lighting the Candles

Candle lighting marks the official beginning of Shabbat. Women and girls typically light the candles, usually two, which represent the two commandments of Shabbat: “Remember” (Zachor) and “Observe” (Shamor). The candles are lit 18 minutes before sunset, although checking the local time is essential to ensure accuracy.

Reciting the Blessing

Once the candles are lit, the following blessing is recited:

ברוך אתה ה’ א‑לוהינו מלך העולם, אשר קדשנו בשולחב מצוותיו, וצוונו להדליק נר של שבת.

Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech HaOlam, Asher Kid’shanu B’Mitzvotav, V’Tzivanu L’Hadlik Ner Shel Shabbat.

Enjoying the Shabbat Meals

Shabbat meals are a time for joy and connection. Here are some traditional customs:

• Kiddush: Before the meal, a blessing over wine (Kiddush) is recited. It acknowledges the sanctity of Shabbat and acts as an