עברית
Women
Can a Single Woman Light Shabbat Candles?
Question
Hello and blessings, I would like to start by saying that your website has really brought me closer to the faith, and in light of recent events, you truly provide comfort and encouragement. To my question: If my dear mother does not light Shabbat candles in my home and I have been doing so for many years, am I permitted to recite the blessing? And is it permitted for me to light two candles? I am still single..
Thank you very much
Answer
Greetings,
According to halacha, there is no obligation for single daughters living at their parents' table to light Shabbat candles. However, if they wish to light Shabbat candles, they may not recite the blessing on lighting the candles. Instead, they should listen to the blessing from their mother and respond 'Amen,' and then light the candles without a blessing (She'elot u-Teshuvot Yabia Omer Part B, Siman 32, and Hazon Ovadia Shabbat Part A, pages 75-85).
However, everything mentioned is specifically when your mother lights Shabbat candles at home. If not, you are obligated to light candles with a blessing. Typically, you may suffice with one candle, but if you desire, you may certainly light two candles, as is the custom in Israel.
Wishing you much success,
Hillel Meirs
