Shabbat candles are lit on Friday evening before sunset to usher in the Shabbat. Candle lighting is traditionally done by the woman of the household, but in the absence of a woman, it can be done by a man. The lighting of Shabbat candles has a dual purpose: To “honor Shabbat” and create “shalom bait” – domestic peace.
After lighting the candles, the woman waves her hands over them, covers her eyes, and recites a blessing:
“ברוך אתה ה״ אלוהינו מלך העולם אשר קדשנו במצותיו וצונו להדליק נר של שבת”
Barukh ata Adonai Eloheinu Melekh ha olam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel Shabbat.
“Blessed are You, LORD, our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to light Shabbat candle[s].”