Be the Light: The Power of Fire in Judaism

Fire plays an essential role in Jewish ritual, from lighting candles to welcome Shabbat and holidays, during the Havdalah ceremony, on Hannukah, and on the anniversary of a loved one’s passing, as well as lighting bonfires on Lag B’Omer. Produced in April 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic sent the entire world into great darkness, this video (03:49) explores the deeper significance of fire in Jewish ritual and philosophy and encourages viewers to bring more light into the world by lighting Shabbat candles. This video was produced by Olami, a global community of organizations committed to inspiring young adults to achieve their Jewish greatness through Jewish learning and practice.