It has always been our tradition to start a celebration by lighting candles.  It is by light that we see our way in the world, by light or fire we cook our food, heat our homes and make tools with which we build our world.  Light/fire is a gift of civilization without which we could not survive.  We now light candles to bring light to our seder; light and warmth to all those who share life with us.

Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu melech ha'olam asher kid'shanu b'mitzvotav, v'tzivanu l'hadlik ner shel Yom Tov.

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Ruler of the Universe, who has sanctified us with laws and commanded us to light the festival lights.


haggadah Section: Introduction