Kadesh קַדֵשׁ

Kadesh: Sanctifying the holiday (and candle lighting) קַדֵשׁ 

Blessed is the match consumed in kindling flame. Blessed is the flame that burns in the secret fastness of the heart. Blessed is the heart with the strength to stop its beating for honor’s sake. Blessed is the match consumed in kindling flame. —Hannah Senesch

We light candles to signify the beginning of the Seder.

May the light of the candles we kindle tonight bring radiance to all who live in darkness.  May this season, marking the deliverance of our people from Pharaoh, rouse us against anyone who keeps others in servitude. In gratitude for the freedom we enjoy, may we strive to bring about the liberation of all people everywhere.

The Blessing for Holiday Candles 

 בָּרוּךְ אַתַּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵיתוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו, וְצִוָּנוּ לְהַדְלִיק נֵר שֶׁל יוֹם טוֹב

Baruch atah Adonai, eloheinu ruach ha’olam, asher kidshanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel shabbat v'Yom Tov.

Blessed are you, Adonai our God, Breath of Life, who sanctifies us with your commandment to kindle the Shabbat and holiday lights.


haggadah Section: Kadesh