Definition:

A ceremony marking the separation between Shabbat and the working week.

Havdalah means separation and the Havdalah ritual is a ceremony marking the separation between Shabbat and the working week; the holiness from the mundane. It is held on Saturday after nightfall and signifies the end of Shabbat. Havdalah is intended to require a person to use all five senses; to taste the wine, smell the spices, see the flame of the candle, feel its heat, and hear the blessings. Blessings are recited over wine, candles and spices. Originally, two candles were held because the prayer recited uses the plural form of light, “Blessed are you, who created the lights of fire.” However today, a single braided candle with a double braided wick is used. The sweet smelling spices are placed in a spice box which is passed between people so that everyone present can enjoy the scent. They are intended to raise spirits and offset the sadness which can be felt at the end of a joyous Sabbath day.