Ask the Rabbi
- Shabbat and Holidays
- Shabbat
- Candle Lighting
Question
Recently the press has quoted Rav Ovadia saying that one should first say the bracha and then light shabbat candles. Are there different customs among sefardi and ashkenazi and if so why, and what do you suggest?
Answer
The Sfardi Minhag is as Rabbi Ovadia said to make a Bracha and then light. The Ashkenazi Minhag is to light first and then to make a Bracha.
Rabbi Yaakov Cohen
follow-up question of: "One who forgets candle lighting
Rabbi David Sperling | Tevet 14, 5775
Shehecheyanu on Shabbat candles
Rabbi Moshe Leib Halberstadt | Kislev 20, 5770
Lighting Shabbat Candles
Various Rabbis | 17 Av 5767
