Do You Light Yahrzeit Candles for Grandparents?

Do You Light Yahrzeit Candles for Grandparents: Yes, you do light Yahrzeit candles for your grandparents. In Jewish tradition, lighting a Yahrzeit candle is a special way to honor and remember the life of a loved one who has passed away and that includes grandparents.

A Yahrzeit candle (also called ner neshama, meaning “soul candle”) is a memorial candle that burns for 24 hours. It’s usually lit on the anniversary of a person’s death, based on the Hebrew calendar, not the regular one (Gregorian). It symbolizes the eternal light of a person’s soul. The custom comes from the idea that “the soul of a person is the lamp of God.” Lighting this candle is a quiet way to show love, memory, and respect on the anniversary of someone’s passing.

🌟 Why Light It for Grandparents?

While lighting for parents is a primary tradition in Jewish law, many people also light Yahrzeit candles for their grandparents, siblings, or other loved ones. This is a cherished and widely accepted custom. Lighting the candle helps keep the memory of your grandparents alive. It’s a personal moment to reflect on their legacy, love, and the values they passed on.

Even if you didn’t know your grandparent well, lighting a candle in their honor can be a way to feel connected to your heritage.

⏰ When and How to Light

When?

  • On the Hebrew anniversary (Yahrzeit) of your grandparent’s passing.
  • Light it at sunset on the evening the date begins.
  • Also lit during:
    • Yom Kippur
    • Passover
    • Shavuot
    • Shemini Atzeret
      These holidays include special memorial prayers known as Yizkor.

How?

  • Use a special 24-hour Yahrzeit candle (typically made of wax or oil).
  • Place it on a stable surface and let it burn out naturally.
  • Light one candle per person being remembered.
  • If the date falls on Shabbat or a Jewish holiday, light it before candle-lighting time using a pre-existing flame.

Words and Intentions

  • There’s no specific prayer required when lighting the candle.
  • Many people take a quiet moment to reflect or say something personal.
  • Some might recite a Psalm, say a few words in their own language, or use a simple phrase like: “I light this candle in memory of my grandparent. May their soul be bound in the bond of life, and may their memory be a blessing.”

❤️ Personal Meaning

Lighting a Yahrzeit candle is more than just a ritual. It’s an emotional and spiritual practice. It invites you to pause, remember, and feel. For many, it becomes a private moment to reflect on family, express gratitude, or share stories with the next generation.

Even if you live far away or have a busy schedule, lighting this candle creates a sacred pause — a connection that time and distance cannot break.

🌱 Honoring Beyond the Flame

  • Many people choose to also give charity (tzedakah) in memory of their loved one, often in multiples of 18, which symbolizes “life.”
  • Others may choose to:
    • Study a piece of Jewish text
    • Visit the grave (if possible)
    • Say the Kaddish prayer with a group (minyan)
    • Share stories or photos with family members

In Summary

  • Yes, lighting a Yahrzeit candle for grandparents is deeply rooted in Jewish custom more than acceptable, it’s a cherished way to connect across generations.
  • It’s a moment that blends tradition with personal significance, offering space for reflection, prayer, and acts of kindness.
  • Beyond the candlelight, honor their memory in whatever feels authentic Torah study, charity, storytelling, or simply taking a moment to feel their enduring presence in your life.

Can I say Yizkor prayers when I light a Yahrzeit candle for my grandparents?

You can say Yizkor prayers when lighting a Yahrzeit candle for your grandparents, but these are distinct Jewish rituals. Yizkor, a memorial prayer, is recited during specific holidays Yom Kippur, Shemini Atzeret, Passover, and Shavuot to honor all deceased loved ones, including grandparents.

Lighting a Yahrzeit candle occurs on the Hebrew anniversary of a death. While there’s no rule requiring Yizkor during Yahrzeit, combining them can be meaningful. For example, a Reddit user on r/Judaism shared reciting Yizkor privately while lighting a candle for their grandmother, feeling it deepened their connection.

My Jewish Learning notes Yizkor’s holiday focus, but personal prayers like Psalms (e.g., Psalm 23) are also common during Yahrzeit. This flexibility allows you to tailor the ritual to your emotional needs.

Summary:

  • Yizkor is for holidays; Yahrzeit candles are for death anniversaries.
  • You can say Yizkor during Yahrzeit for personal significance.

What are the specific rules or protocol I need to follow when lighting a Yahrzeit candle?

Lighting a Yahrzeit candle follows simple guidelines, ensuring respect for the tradition while allowing personal touches. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Timing: Light the candle at sundown on the eve of the Yahrzeit, the Hebrew anniversary of the death. If it falls on Shabbat, light it before Shabbat begins, as fire is prohibited on Shabbat.
  • Candle Type: Use a 24-hour Yahrzeit candle, available at Judaica stores or online. Electric candles are a safe alternative, as noted by Sagel Bloomfield.
  • Location: Place the candle in your home, often on a windowsill, or in a synagogue. Ensure it’s on a non-flammable surface for safety.
  • Who Lights It: Traditionally for immediate family, but lighting for grandparents is common, especially if no one else observes their Yahrzeit.
  • Prayers: No prayer is mandatory, but reflecting on memories or saying Kaddish is meaningful.
  • Household Practice: One candle per household is typical, though individuals can light their own.

These steps, rooted in sources like Chabad.org, make the ritual accessible and heartfelt.

Summary:

  • Light at sundown, use a 24-hour candle, and prioritize safety.
  • Personalize with prayers or memories.

What is the proper Hebrew-calendar date I should use death date or burial date?

The Yahrzeit is observed on the Hebrew anniversary of the death, not the burial. Jewish tradition marks the moment the soul leaves the body, which occurs at death.

For instance, if your grandparent passed on 10 Tishrei, you light the candle on 10 Tishrei each year. Chabad.org and Forward.com confirm this practice. Use tools like HebCal.com to convert the Gregorian death date to Hebrew and track future dates. Burial dates, while significant in other cultures, aren’t used for Yahrzeit. If unsure, check family records or consult a rabbi.

Summary:

  • Use the Hebrew death date, not burial.
  • Convert dates with online tools.

What if I forgot to light the Yahrzeit candle what should I do then?

If you miss lighting the Yahrzeit candle, you can still honor your grandparent. Light the candle as soon as you remember, unless it’s Shabbat or a holiday when fire is prohibited. If the Yahrzeit has passed, make a donation to charity (tzedakah) in their memory.

For example, a user on r/Judaism shared donating to a local synagogue after missing their grandfather’s Yahrzeit, feeling it was a fitting tribute. Lighting late or giving charity keeps the memory alive. The tradition is forgiving, focusing on intention over perfection.

Unburned Yahrzeit candle left on a table after forgetting to light it. bathandbodyworkscandles.store

Summary:

  • Light when you remember, except on Shabbat.
  • Donate to charity if the date has passed.

Do I say a prayer when I light the Yahrzeit candle, and if so, which one?

No specific prayer is required when lighting a Yahrzeit candle, giving you freedom to personalize the moment. Many reflect on memories or say prayers like:

  • Mourner’s Kaddish: Common during mourning or if a minyan is available.
  • Psalms: Psalm 23 or 121 are popular choices.
  • Personal Prayer: A heartfelt statement like, “May [Name]’s soul find peace.”

Forward.com notes that prayers are optional, emphasizing the candle’s symbolic role. A Chabad.org user mentioned reciting a personal prayer for their grandmother, highlighting the ritual’s flexibility. Choose what resonates with you to honor your grandparent.

Summary:

  • No mandatory prayer; Kaddish or Psalms are common.
  • Reflect or pray as feels right.

Can I light a Yahrzeit candle for a grandparent who wasn’t Jewish?

You can light a Yahrzeit candle for a non-Jewish grandparent. While rooted in Jewish tradition, there’s no rule against lighting one for non-Jews. Sagel Bloomfield states candles can be lit for anyone, including friends or extended family. A Reddit user shared lighting a candle for their non-Jewish grandfather, finding it a comforting way to remember him. This personal act respects your bond, even if it’s not strictly traditional. If it feels meaningful, light the candle to keep their memory alive.

Summary:

  • Yes, you can light for non-Jewish grandparents.
  • It’s a personal tribute.

What are the Yahrzeit rituals beyond just lighting the candle?

Yahrzeit involves more than lighting a candle. Here are additional rituals:

  • Mourner’s Kaddish: Recite with a minyan during synagogue services.
  • Torah Study: Study Mishnah or Torah in memory of the deceased.
  • Charity (Tzedakah): Donate to a cause your grandparent valued.
  • Grave Visit: Pay respects at their gravesite.
  • Sharing Memories: Gather with family to share stories.

Chabad.org highlights these practices, noting their spiritual significance. A user on r/Judaism described studying Torah for their grandfather’s Yahrzeit, feeling it honored his legacy. These rituals deepen the remembrance experience.

Summary:

  • Say Kaddish, study Torah, give charity, visit graves.
  • Share family stories.

How do I calculate when to light the candle in 2025 or future years?

To light the Yahrzeit candle in 2025 or beyond, follow these steps:

  1. Identify the Hebrew Death Date: Check family records or the death certificate.
  2. Use a Calculator: Tools like HebCal.com convert Gregorian to Hebrew dates and list future Yahrzeits.
  3. Note the Date: Yahrzeit begins at sundown on the Hebrew date’s eve.
  4. Adjust for Leap Years: Hebrew calendars vary, but calculators handle this.

For example, a death on June 18, 2025 (29 Sivan 5785) means lighting on 29 Sivan annually. Chabad.org offers similar tools. This ensures accuracy for future observances.

Summary:

  • Use HebCal.com for Hebrew dates.
  • Light at sundown on the eve.

When a Yahrzeit falls on Shabbat or a holiday, how and when should I light the candle?

If the Yahrzeit falls on Shabbat or a holiday, light the candle before these times begin:

  • Shabbat: Light before sundown on Friday, prior to Shabbat candles.
  • Holidays (e.g., Passover, Shavuot): Light before the holiday starts, as new fires are forbidden.
  • Yom Kippur: Light before the fast begins.

Wikipedia explains these restrictions. A Chabad.org user shared lighting early for a Passover Yahrzeit, ensuring compliance. Planning ahead respects both traditions.

Summary:

  • Light before Shabbat or holiday begins.
  • Respect fire restrictions.

How many Yahrzeit candles should I light if multiple grandparents passed away?

There’s no fixed rule for multiple grandparents. Traditionally, one candle per household suffices, as noted by Sagel Bloomfield. However, you can light one per grandparent if their Yahrzeits differ or if it feels meaningful. A Reddit user lit separate candles for each grandparent, finding it more personal. If Yahrzeits coincide, one candle can represent all. Choose what honors their memory best.

Summary:

  • One candle per household is typical.
  • Multiple candles are fine for personal connection.
AspectDetails
Who to Light ForImmediate family; grandparents common if no one else observes.
When to LightSundown on Yahrzeit eve or before Shabbat/holidays.
Candle Type24-hour Yahrzeit candle or electric for safety.
PrayersOptional; Kaddish, Psalms, or personal prayers.
Other RitualsKaddish, Torah study, charity, grave visits, sharing memories.

Can I light an electric or battery-powered Yahrzeit candle instead of a traditional one?

You can absolutely use an electric or battery-powered Yahrzeit candle instead of a traditional flame-based one. Jewish tradition values the symbolic act of lighting a memorial candle, and modern alternatives like electric lamps are widely accepted, especially for safety reasons.

Chabad.org notes that if a traditional candle isn’t available, an electric lamp can serve the same purpose. This is particularly useful in settings like hospitals, dorms, or homes with pets or children, where open flames pose risks.

For example, a Reddit user on r/Judaism shared using an electric Yahrzeit candle in their apartment to avoid fire hazards, finding it just as meaningful. As a candle artisan, you might appreciate crafting a custom electric Yahrzeit lamp with a soft, flickering LED to mimic a flame’s glow, blending tradition with modern safety.

Summary:

  • Electric or battery-powered Yahrzeit candles are acceptable.
  • Use them for safety or convenience without lo

What kind of candle should I use beeswax, paraffin, oil lamp, or electric?

You have several options for Yahrzeit candles, each with unique benefits. Traditional 24-hour Yahrzeit candles, often paraffin-based, are widely used and available at Judaica stores or online. Chabad.org suggests beeswax candles for their connection to the Hebrew word shaavah (resurrection), adding spiritual depth.

Oil lamps, especially olive oil, are favored in some communities for mystical reasons, as noted by Rabbi Bahya on Kadish.org.il. Electric or battery-powered lamps are practical alternatives, especially for safety, as confirmed by Sagel Bloomfield.

Paraffin is common and affordable, while beeswax or oil offers a natural, eco-friendly touch, aligning with your artisanal focus. Choose based on safety, availability, and personal preference.

Summary:

  • Paraffin, beeswax, oil lamps, or electric are all suitable.
  • Beeswax and oil add spiritual significance; electric ensures safety.

Do I Always Recite Kaddish for My Grandparents When I Light the Candle?

You don’t always need to recite the Mourner’s Kaddish when lighting a Yahrzeit candle for your grandparents. Jewish law requires Kaddish for immediate family (parents, spouses, siblings, children), but it’s optional for grandparents.

However, many choose to say it as a meaningful tribute, especially if no one else is reciting it for them. Chabad.org notes that some recite Kaddish for extended relatives to honor their memory. A user on r/Judaism shared saying Kaddish for their grandmother at home, finding it comforting.

If you prefer, you can reflect silently or say Psalms (e.g., Psalm 23) instead. The candle’s symbolism stands alone, so choose what feels right for you.

Summary:

  • Kaddish is optional for grandparents.
  • Reflect or say other prayers if preferred.

If I Miss Synagogue Services, Can I Say Kaddish at Home After Lighting?

Yes, you can say the Mourner’s Kaddish at home after lighting a Yahrzeit candle, but traditionally, it requires a minyan (10 Jewish adults). If you can’t attend synagogue, you might gather a minyan at home, as suggested by My Jewish Learning. Alternatively, you can recite Kaddish alone as a personal prayer, though it’s not halachically binding without a minyan.

A Reddit user shared reciting Kaddish alone for their grandfather, finding it meaningful despite missing services. Online minyans, like those offered by Chabad.org, are another option. You can also say Psalms or a personal prayer to honor your grandparent at home.

Summary:

  • Say Kaddish at home with a minyan if possible.
  • Alone, use personal prayers or online minyans.

Should I Study Torah or Give Charity in Memory of My Grandparent?

Studying Torah and giving charity (tzedakah) are both meaningful Yahrzeit rituals to honor your grandparent. Jewish tradition encourages these acts to elevate the deceased’s soul.

Chabad.org recommends studying Mishnah or Torah portions in their memory, as it brings spiritual merit. Giving charity to a cause your grandparent valued, like a synagogue or community fund, is equally significant.

A user on r/Judaism shared donating to a local charity for their grandfather’s Yahrzeit, feeling it reflected his values. You can do both or choose one based on your connection to your grandparent. For example, study a Torah portion they loved or donate to a cause they supported.

Summary:

  • Study Torah or give charity to honor grandparents.
  • Choose based on their values or your preference.

Do Yahrzeit Observances Differ Between Ashkenazi and Sephardic Traditions?

Yahrzeit observances vary slightly between Ashkenazi and Sephardic traditions. Ashkenazi Jews typically name the deceased using their name and father’s name (e.g., “Sarah bat Avraham”) when reciting prayers or lighting candles, as noted by Kadish.org.il. Sephardic Jews often use the mother’s name (e.g., “Sarah bat Rachel”).

Ashkenazi communities emphasize Kaddish and Yizkor prayers, while Sephardic traditions may include additional prayers like Hashkavah. Both light Yahrzeit candles, but Sephardic Jews might prefer oil lamps for their mystical significance.

A Reddit user mentioned their Sephardic family lighting olive oil lamps for grandparents, contrasting with Ashkenazi paraffin candles. Despite differences, the core intent honoring the deceased remains the same.

Summary:

  • Ashkenazi use father’s name; Sephardic use mother’s.
  • Both light candles, but Sephardic may prefer oil lamps.

What Do I Do with the Yahrzeit Candle When It Burns Out Any Special Cleanup?

Once a Yahrzeit candle burns out, no special cleanup is required, but handle it respectfully. Chabad.org advises letting the candle extinguish naturally, as it symbolizes the soul’s eternal light. Dispose of the container (glass or metal) by recycling or wrapping it in a bag before discarding, out of respect for its sacred use.

A Reddit user shared wrapping their grandmother’s Yahrzeit candle container in cloth before disposal, feeling it honored the ritual. Avoid reusing the container for non-sacred purposes. As a candle artisan, you might repurpose clean glass containers for eco-friendly projects, ensuring they’re not used for mundane tasks.

Summary:

  • Let the candle burn out naturally.
  • Dispose respectfully by recycling or wrapping.

How Do Boutique Stores or Event Planners Support Families Lighting Yahrzeit Candles?

Boutique stores and event planners can support families by offering curated Yahrzeit candle options and personalized services. Stores like yours, Bath and Body Works Candles, can provide eco-friendly beeswax or soy Yahrzeit candles, aligning with your artisanal focus.

Event planners can create memorial setups with candles, prayer cards, and memory-sharing spaces for Yahrzeit gatherings. For example, a boutique in New York offered custom-engraved Yahrzeit candle holders, as shared on X, enhancing the ritual’s personal touch.

Planners might coordinate synagogue services or home minyans, ensuring families have everything needed. Offer candles with subtle scents like lavender to evoke calm, or unscented for tradition.

Summary:

  • Boutiques offer eco-friendly or custom Yahrzeit candles.
  • Planners create memorial setups or coordinate services.

Where Can I Buy Yahrzeit Candles Nearby in My State or City?

Finding Yahrzeit candles in your area depends on your location, but several options exist across the USA. Judaica stores, like those listed on Chabad.org, carry 24-hour candles. Supermarkets with kosher sections, such as Whole Foods or Kroger, often stock them.

Store shelf filled with packaged Yahrzeit candles available locally. bathandbodyworkscandles.store

Online retailers like Bath and Body Works Candles, Amazon offer paraffin, beeswax, or electric Yahrzeit candles with fast shipping. Local synagogues, like Beth El Mausoleum, may provide free candles. A Reddit user found candles at a local kosher market, suggesting checking similar stores. As a candle artisan, you could sell Yahrzeit candles on your site, Bath and Body Works Candles, to meet this need.

Summary:

  • Check Judaica stores, supermarkets, or online retailers.
  • Local synagogues may offer free candles.

How Do I Light a Yahrzeit Candle Properly at a Gravesite During Yizkor?

Lighting a Yahrzeit candle at a gravesite during Yizkor requires care. Use a 24-hour candle or electric lamp for safety, as gravesites are outdoors. Sagel Bloomfield suggests placing the candle in a stable, wind-resistant holder to prevent tipping. Light it at sundown before Yizkor holidays (Yom Kippur, Shemini Atzeret, Passover, Shavuot).

If visiting during the day, ensure the candle is secure. A Reddit user shared using a glass-enclosed candle at their grandfather’s grave, protecting it from wind. No specific prayers are required, but you can say Yizkor or Psalms. Check cemetery rules, as some restrict open flames.

Summary:

  • Use a stable, wind-resistant candle holder.
  • Light at sundown; check cemetery rules.

What If the Yahrzeit Candle Goes Out Prematurely Should I Relight It or Do Something Else?

If your Yahrzeit candle goes out prematurely, you can relight it, unlike Shabbat candles. Chabad.org notes there’s no issue with relighting to keep the memory alive all day. Use a match or existing flame (not on Shabbat). If relighting isn’t possible, perform another ritual like giving charity or saying Psalms.

A Reddit user relit their grandmother’s candle after a draft extinguished it, feeling it maintained the ritual’s intent. As a candle artisan, you might recommend a high-quality, wind-resistant Yahrzeit candle to prevent this. The focus is on honoring your grandparent, so any meaningful act works.

Summary:

  • Relight the candle if possible.
  • Alternatively, give charity or say prayers.

Table: Yahrzeit Candle Options and Practices

Candle TypeProsConsBest For
Paraffin YahrzeitAffordable, widely availableLess eco-friendlyTraditional use, budget-conscious
Beeswax YahrzeitNatural, spiritual significanceMore expensiveEco-conscious, artisanal preference
Oil Lamp (Olive Oil)Mystical meaning, long-lastingRequires special holderSephardic traditions, spiritual focus
Electric/BatterySafe, no fire hazardLess traditionalHomes with safety concerns

Do I Light a Yahrzeit Candle for My Grandparents?

Yes, you can light a Yahrzeit candle for your grandparents. This tradition is deeply meaningful in Jewish culture, serving as a way to remember and honor deceased loved ones. The Yahrzeit candle is typically lit on the anniversary of the death (Yahrzeit), calculated according to the Hebrew calendar.

Many also light these candles during specific holidays when the Yizkor memorial prayer is recited, such as Yom Kippur, Shemini Atzeret, Passover, and Shavuot. While Jewish law traditionally mandates lighting Yahrzeit candles for immediate family members parents, spouses, siblings, and children there is no prohibition against lighting them for other relatives, including grandparents.

In fact, it’s a common practice, especially if you had a close relationship with them or if no one else is observing their Yahrzeit. For example, a user on Reddit’s r/Judaism shared their desire to start lighting Yahrzeit candles for their grandparents, highlighting the personal significance of this act.

As a candle artisan, you might find this ritual particularly resonant, appreciating the symbolic nature of the flame representing the eternal soul. Chabad.org notes that lighting a Yahrzeit candle for grandparents is a beautiful custom, especially if no one else is available to do so.

Person lighting a Yahrzeit candle in memory of grandparents in a cozy home. 

Do You Light Yahrzeit Candles for Grandparents? By bathandbodyworkscandles.store

Whether you choose a traditional paraffin candle, a beeswax candle for its natural properties, or an electric one for safety, the act itself is what matters. This practice not only honors their memory but also provides a moment for reflection and connection to your family’s heritage.

Summary:

  • Yes, you can light a Yahrzeit candle for your grandparents.
  • It’s a common practice to honor their memory on their death anniversary or during holidays.
  • As a candle maker, you might appreciate the symbolic depth of this tradition.

Do I Say Yizkor for Grandparents?

Yes, you can say Yizkor for your grandparents. Yizkor is a memorial prayer recited during specific Jewish holidays Yom Kippur, Shemini Atzeret, Passover, and Shavuot to remember deceased loved ones. It’s customary to include grandparents in these prayers, as they are considered part of your family legacy.

Saying Yizkor is a way to honor their memory and ask for their souls to be at peace. Many combine saying Yizkor with lighting a Yahrzeit candle, creating a more meaningful ritual. My Jewish Learning notes that Yizkor candles are lit during these holidays, often for grandparents among others.

As someone who values candles for their ambiance and symbolism, you might appreciate how lighting a candle complements the recitation of Yizkor, enhancing the experience of remembrance. A user on Reddit’s r/Judaism mentioned reciting Yizkor privately while lighting a candle for their grandmother, finding it deepened their connection.

While there’s no strict requirement to say Yizkor for grandparents, it’s a practice many find comforting. If you’re unsure about the exact words, resources like Chabad.org or a rabbi can guide you. The key is to approach it with sincerity and respect for your grandparents’ memory.

Summary:

  • Yes, you can say Yizkor for your grandparents during specific holidays.
  • It’s a way to honor their memory and keep their legacy alive.
  • Pairing it with lighting a Yahrzeit candle can enhance the ritual.

What Are the Rules for the Yahrzeit Candle?

The rules for lighting a Yahrzeit candle are straightforward but carry deep significance. First, light the candle at sundown on the eve of the Yahrzeit (the Hebrew anniversary of the death), as Jewish days begin at sunset. The candle should burn for 24 hours, symbolizing the eternal soul. Use a specially designed 24-hour Yahrzeit candle, available at Judaica stores, some supermarkets, or online.

Place it in a safe location, like a windowsill or synagogue, where it can burn undisturbed. Sagel Bloomfield emphasizes safety, recommending a non-flammable surface. While no specific prayer is required, many choose to say a personal prayer or recite Psalms (e.g., Psalm 23).

For example, you might say, “May the soul of [Name] be bound up in the bond of eternal life.” Forward.com notes that the candle’s symbolism stands alone, making prayers optional.

As a candle artisan, you might be inspired to create custom Yahrzeit candles perhaps with eco-friendly materials like soy wax or personalized engravings to make this ritual special for your customers. If the Yahrzeit falls on Shabbat, light the candle before Shabbat candles to avoid kindling a flame on Shabbat.

Summary:

  • Light at sundown on the Yahrzeit eve.
  • Use a 24-hour Yahrzeit candle.
  • Place it safely.
  • Optional: say a personal prayer or recite Psalms.

Where Can I Buy a 24-Hour Yahrzeit Candle Near Me in the USA?

If you’re looking to purchase a 24-hour Yahrzeit candle in the USA, there are several options. Start by checking local Judaica stores, which specialize in Jewish religious items and often carry these candles. Many supermarkets with kosher sections, like Whole Foods or Kroger, stock them, especially in areas with large Jewish populations.

Online retailers like Amazon offer a variety of options, including traditional paraffin candles, beeswax candles, and electric candles for safety.

Some synagogues provide Yahrzeit candles for free or at a low cost check with your local one. My Jewish Learning mentions supermarkets as a common source. A Reddit user on r/Judaism found candles at a local kosher market, suggesting similar stores.

If you’re in a city with a significant Jewish community, specialty stores or gift shops catering to Jewish customers might also have them. As the founder of Bath and Body Works Candles, you could consider adding handcrafted Yahrzeit candles to your product line, offering customers a unique way to honor their loved ones with eco-friendly or artisanal options.

Summary:

  • Judaica stores
  • Kosher supermarkets
  • Online retailers like Amazon
  • Local synagogues

Are There Local Shops in New York That Sell Traditional Yahrzeit or Kosher Candles?

Yes, New York has several shops that sell traditional Yahrzeit candles. Judaica House in Brooklyn is a well-known store offering a variety of Jewish religious items, including Yahrzeit candles. The Jewish Museum Store in Manhattan provides both traditional and modern Jewish-themed products, including candles.

Many kosher supermarkets throughout New York, especially in neighborhoods like Brooklyn (e.g., Borough Park), Queens (e.g., Forest Hills), and Manhattan (e.g., Upper West Side), carry Yahrzeit candles. Stores like Fairway Market or Key Food often have sections for religious items. Sagel Bloomfield highlights the availability of Yahrzeit candles in Jewish communities.

A user on X mentioned finding candles at a Brooklyn kosher store, reinforcing local availability. For something unique, consider specialty shops focusing on handcrafted candles they might offer custom Yahrzeit candles. As someone running a candle business, exploring these shops could inspire new designs or ways to cater to customers seeking meaningful religious items.

Summary:

  • Judaica House (Brooklyn)
  • The Jewish Museum Store (Manhattan)
  • Kosher supermarkets in Jewish neighborhoods
  • Specialty shops for handcrafted candles

FAQs

How many times a year do we light Yahrzeit candles for a grandparent?

Typically, you light one candle each year on the anniversary of your grandparent’s death in the Hebrew calendar so once per year helps keep their memory alive.

Do electric or battery-powered candles count for Yahrzeit?

While traditional flame is ideal, some allow electric or battery Yahrzeit candles especially when open flame isn’t safe or practical. Check your community’s guidance to decide.

What should I say when lighting a Yahrzeit candle?

It’s common to recite the Yahrzeit blessing in Hebrew or simply say the person’s name with a heartfelt thought. A brief personal reflection is also meaningful.

If my Yahrzeit falls on Shabbat, can we light early?

Yes. When Yahrzeit overlaps Shabbat or a holiday, it’s appropriate to light the candle before sundown, preserving the intent while respecting religious rules.

Can I join synagogue services for Yizkor instead of just lighting at home?

Definitely. Attending Yizkor at synagogue can deepen the observance. But if you can’t attend, lighting your candle at home with a prayer is also meaningful.

What do I do with the candle wax or remnants afterward?

There’s no formal rule. Many simply leave the remnants until the next cleaning. You can pour leftover wax into a safe container or dispose of it in a respectful way.

Final Thoughts on ‘Do You Light Yahrzeit Candles for Grandparents?’

Lighting a Yahrzeit candle for grandparents honors their memory, connects us to heritage, and offers a gentle moment of reflection. Whether it’s choosing the right candle, saying a prayer, or handling missed lighting, each action deepens the bond with loved ones. Keep it personal and meaningful. Ready to honor your grandparents tonight?

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