This short reflection, recited prior to light Shabbat candles, is written by Jewish-American poet, Marge Piercy, and appears in the Reconstructionist Kol Haneshama siddur. It encourages the reader to be grateful of his/her blessings and mindful of the sacred moment of lighting Shabbat candles. Reconstructionist Judaism is a modern Jewish movement that views Judaism as a progressively evolving civilization in its ongoing relationship with God. As an active member of the Jewish renewal movement, Piercy also contributed to the Or Chadash siddur.
A Reflection Before the Shabbat Candle Lighting
As the great doors of night are opening we come into the clean, quiet room of Shabbat.
Let us be thankful as we light these candles like eyes of holiness on this moment of peace.
Let us savor the fruit of the vine, the blood of the earth that quickens us.
Let us be thankful for grain, fruit of grasses that feed the cow, the gazelle, and us.
Let us be grateful for the children and the work of the week that are our own fruitfulness.
Let us as we eat never forget that food comes from the earth.
We must cherish and heal through labor, we must respect and reward.