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Closing of Shabbat

Description

When Shabbat comes to an end on Saturday evening, a Havdalah ceremony is held to mark the occasion. A blessing is said over wine, a symbol of joy, then over sweet spices, to comfort the soul at the loss of Shabbat. Finally a multi-wicked candle is lit to show that Shabbat has ended and that fire may be created again.

Classroom Ideas

Students could recreate the main elements of Havdalah. For example, they could pour grape juice into cups and let it spill over on to a saucer. What is the symbolic meaning of this, and the other elements of Havdalah?

Students could discuss how they feel about each day of the week. Do they experience disappointment on a Sunday evening at the thought of a Monday? Students could discuss how they could continue the fun of the weekend into the week, and how this compares to the symbolic meaning in the pouring of wine until it overflows in the Kiddush.