Could you please confirm the holidays when we light a Yahrzeit candle in memory of a deceased family member?
Every year on the Hebrew anniversary of their passing a 24 hr. memorial candle is lit from sundown to nightfall, as well as on the last day of Sukkot, Passover, Shavuot, and Yom Kippur.
We respond to every follow-up question submitted, but only publish selected ones.
In order to be considered for publication, questions must be on-topic, polite, and address ideas rather than
personalities.
Is there a specific prayer that is said when lighting the yahrzeit candle?
No, it isn’t an actual mitzvah, rather a commemorative light.
Comment by ATR — September 19, 2007 @ 3:41 pm
Can you please clarify the source for lighting the candle?
It is to manifest the verse in Mishlei (Proverbs) chapter 20, verse 27: “The soul of man is the candle of God.”
Comment by ATR — September 26, 2007 @ 11:10 am