Learn how to read the traditional prayer said by women (and men who live alone) as they welcome Shabbat into their homes by lighting candles each week.

A traditional song sung every Friday night. Shalom Aleichem signals the arrival of Shabbat, welcoming the angels who accompany a person home on the eve of the Shabbat.

The blessing we recite before eating bread, thanking G-d for being the true source of food and sustenance in our lives.

Before we eat, we wash our hands to cleanse and purify ourselves both physically and spiritually for the meal. Washing before we eat reminds us that the meal is not merely a culinary experience, but a spiritual one as well.

Kiddush is about our partnership with G-d. He created Shabbat, but through our words, and over a cup of wine, we sanctify it.

Whether you have just come back from shul, or you stayed in for Shabbat morning, it’s time to gather round your table once more to say the daytime Kiddush and enjoy another Shabbat meal.

Eshet Chayil is a 22-verse poem with which King Solomon concludes the Book of Proverbs. An ode to the “woman of valor”, King Solomon’s descriptions also refer allegorically to the Shechinah, the Sabbath, the Torah, wisdom and the soul.

We begin our Shabbat journey by blessing our children, focusing on each of them individually.

Light a multi-wicked candle, have a sweet-smelling spice (like cinnamon) ready, and say the prayer below over a cup of wine or grape juice. Wait until the end of the prayer before drinking the majority of the glass.

Your downloadable guide to Shabbat, from start to finish – from candle-lighting to Havdalah.

When we are done eating, we thank G-d for the sustenance He has provided us with, and continues to provide us with, always. We can sing along together or quietly say the words to ourselves.

For the A-Z of the evening Shabbat services, download or print this comprehensive guide.