How to Light Yahrzeit (Memorial) Candles

Question: How to Light Yahrzeit (Memorial) Candles

When should one light a Yahrzeit (Memorial) Candle? What prayer should one recite when lighting a Yahrzeit Candle?

Answer: What is a Yahrzeit Candle?

A Yahrzeit Candle is a special memorial candle. Yahrzeit Candles are traditionally lit for deceased relations for whom one recites Mourner's Kaddish: parents, spouse, siblings, and children. Lighting a yahrzeit candle is a Jewish custom (minhag). While it is not required by Jewish law (halakhah), the custom of lighting a Yahrzeit candles has become deeply ingrained in Jewish life.

When should one light a Yahrzeit (Memorial) Candle?

A Yahrzeit Candle is lit

1. During the week of Shiva (mourning)
2. At sundown on the eve of the Yahrzeit (anniversary of the death)
3. At sundown preceding the start of Yom Kippur and at sundown preceding the last day of Succoth, Passover and Shavuot (On these holidays, one should attend the Yizkor (Memorial) Prayer Service in the synagogue.)

How can one calculate a person's Yahrzeit date?

The date of the Yahrzeit, which is calculated according to the Hebrew calendar, is the anniversary of the death, not the burial. Given the date of passing, HebCal.com's Yahrzeit Calendar can be used to generate a list of corresponding Yahrzeit dates.

How should one light a Yahrzeit Candle?

Special candles that burn for 24 hours are used. Only one Yahrzeit candle needs to be lit per household. Some people use an electric bulb instead of a candle today for safety reasons.

What prayer is recited when lighting a Yahrzeit Candle?

There is no special prayer that must be recited while lighting a memorial candle. Some people stop for a few moments to remember the deceased and to spend some time in introspection. Others recite Psalms (121, 130, 142 are suggested).

What is the meaning behind lighting a Yahrzeit Candle?

Judaism see similarity between a candle's flame and a soul. The connection between flames and souls derives from the Book of Proverbs (chapter 20, verse 27): "The soul of man is the light of God." Just as a flame is never still, the soul also continuously strives to reach up to God. Thus, the flickering flame of the Yahrzeit candle helps to remind us of the departed soul of our loved one.

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