> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.bibleanalysis.org/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # What is the start of Shabbat called? - URL: https://www.bibleanalysis.org/what-is-the-start-of-shabbat-called/ - Published: 2026-09-14T03:43:42.000Z - Updated: 2026-09-14T03:43:42.000Z - Description: The start of Shabbat, called Kabbalat Shabbat, is a profound and beautiful moment in Jewish life. Through candle-lighting, prayer, song, and family rituals, Jews around the world welcome the Sabbath with joy and reverence. - Author: Anurag Rao - Tags: What is the start of Shabbat called?, Questions And Answers About The Bible Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, is a day of rest and spiritual enrichment observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. One of the most distinctive aspects of Shabbat is its unique beginning, marked by centuries-old rituals and customs. ## What is the Start of Shabbat Called? The start of Shabbat is known as "Kabbalat Shabbat," a Hebrew term meaning "Welcoming the Sabbath." This phrase not only identifies the time when Shabbat formally begins but also refers to the set of prayers and customs that usher in the Sabbath. The transition from the ordinary workweek to the sanctity of Shabbat is both spiritual and communal, deeply rooted in Jewish history and practice. ## The Meaning Behind Kabbalat Shabbat The phrase "Kabbalat Shabbat" comes from the Hebrew words "kabbalat," meaning "receiving" or "welcoming," and "Shabbat," meaning "Sabbath." The tradition of welcoming Shabbat developed among Jewish mystics in 16th-century Safed (Tzfat), a city in northern Israel. These mystics would go out into the fields as the sun set on Friday, singing psalms and hymns to greet the "Sabbath Queen," a poetic personification of Shabbat as a bride or noble guest. This custom eventually evolved into a formalized set of prayers and rituals observed in synagogues and homes around the world. ## When Does Shabbat Begin? Shabbat begins at sunset on Friday evening. The precise time varies each week and depends on one’s geographic location. Jewish communities publish Shabbat candle-lighting times, which are typically set 18 minutes before sunset, providing a buffer to ensure all preparatory work is completed before Shabbat officially starts. This period is considered especially sacred, as it marks the transition from the secular week to the holy day. ## The Rituals of Welcoming Shabbat ### Lighting the Shabbat Candles The most well-known ritual marking the start of Shabbat is the lighting of the Shabbat candles, known in Hebrew as "Hadlakat Nerot Shabbat." Traditionally, this is done by the woman of the household, though anyone can perform the mitzvah (commandment). Lighting two candles—symbolizing the dual commands to "remember" (zachor) and "observe" (shamor) the Sabbath—the ritual signifies the separation between the weekday and Shabbat. After lighting the candles, a blessing is recited, and many women take a moment for private prayer. ### Kabbalat Shabbat Service In the synagogue, the arrival of Shabbat is celebrated with the Kabbalat Shabbat service, a series of psalms and hymns sung joyously by the congregation. The centerpiece of this service is "Lecha Dodi," a 16th-century poem welcoming the "Sabbath Bride." The congregation often stands and turns to the entrance of the synagogue for the final verse, symbolically welcoming Shabbat. ### Recitation of Kiddush At home, the Shabbat meal begins with the recitation of "Kiddush," a blessing over a cup of wine or grape juice. This sanctifies Shabbat and marks the meal as a sacred occasion. The Kiddush prayer recalls both the creation of the world and the Exodus from Egypt, reinforcing the deep spiritual and historical significance of Shabbat. ### Blessing the Children Another cherished custom at the start of Shabbat is parents blessing their children. This personal moment is an opportunity for parents to express love and hopes for their children’s well-being, drawing on the blessings given to the sons of Joseph and to Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah. ## The Symbolism of Shabbat’s Beginning The beginning of Shabbat, with its rituals and prayers, is rich in symbolism. Lighting the candles brings literal and metaphorical light into the home, signifying peace and spiritual clarity. The communal singing and welcoming of the Sabbath Bride reflect the joy and anticipation of entering sacred time. The rituals remind participants to set aside the stresses of the week and focus on rest, family, and spiritual connection. ## Historical Development of Kabbalat Shabbat While the core idea of marking the start of Shabbat dates back to biblical times, the specific customs of Kabbalat Shabbat developed much later. In medieval Europe, Jews would recite psalms and sing songs at home before Shabbat, but the formal Kabbalat Shabbat service as known today originated in 16th-century Safed. There, mystics led by Rabbi Isaac Luria (the Ari) developed the practice of going out into nature to greet Shabbat, which became such a cherished ritual that it spread throughout the Jewish world. By the 17th century, the Kabbalat Shabbat service was incorporated into the Friday evening synagogue liturgy across Ashkenazi and Sephardi communities, becoming a universal part of Jewish life. ## Shabbat’s Beginning Around the World Across the globe, Jewish communities mark the start of Shabbat in ways that reflect both shared tradition and local custom. In Jerusalem, for example, the city slows down as sunset approaches, and the sound of sirens signals the imminent arrival of Shabbat. In North America, many families gather for a festive meal after candle-lighting and synagogue services. In some communities, streets are closed to traffic, reinforcing the sense of peace and separation from the workweek. ## Why the Beginning of Shabbat Matters The start of Shabbat is not merely a technical moment on the calendar; it is a spiritual threshold. By intentionally welcoming Shabbat, individuals and families create space for rest, reflection, and community. The transition rituals help participants leave behind the concerns of daily life and enter a sacred time dedicated to rejuvenation and connection with the divine. ## Conclusion The start of Shabbat, called Kabbalat Shabbat, is a profound and beautiful moment in Jewish life. Through candle-lighting, prayer, song, and family rituals, Jews around the world welcome the Sabbath with joy and reverence.