Shabbat ends when three stars are visible in the evening sky. Havdalah means, literally, separation. It is the ritual that distinguishes between the sacred time of Shabbat and the ordinary time of the rest of the week. Incorporating candles, wine, and spices, havdalah appeals to our senses as we leave the pleasure of Shabbat behind. Many people also use the time occurrence or symbols of havdalah as a basis for other rituals, building on its themes of separation, distinction, and new beginnings.
“We reach out to hold You close a bit longer.”
“Blessed are You who distinguishes between life and death”
Havdalah ceremony from Minneapolis honoring the memory of George Floyd
Support Ritualwell’s free offerings and events and receive a weekly guide with prompts and practices for each week of the Omer.
Ritualwell is here for you! Join us for community eventsand creative inspiration to do this spiritual work.
Subscribe for the latest rituals, online learning opportunities, and unique Judaica finds from our store.