Havdallah

In Jewish worship, a service of separation held both in the synagogue and at home to mark the end of Sabbath and holy festivals, such as Pesach. Havdallah is held after sunset, when the celebrations have ended. It marks the division of holy from secular, light from dark, Israel from other nations, and a holy day from the ordinary days of the year.

Berachot (blessings) are made over a plaited candle and a box of sweet spices. The candle is lit because light was the first thing created by God, and hymns are sung. Finally, the candle is extinguished in wine, symbolizing the ending of the holy day. A box of spice is passed round for all to smell, so that the sweet scent of the holy day lingers with them until the following Sabbath.