Habdalah

The rabbinical term for the benedictions and prayers by means of which a division is made between times of varying degrees of holiness, e.g., between Sabbath and work-day, festival and work-day, or Sabbath and festival. The rabbinical law requires that a formal separation be made between holy and profane times, and prohibits the resumption of ordinary work after a holy day until such division shall have been made. This is accomplished by pronouncing the Habdalah. At the evening service of a day following one of greater holiness, words expressing the distinction are inserted in the "'Amidah"; and just before the conclusion of the service a special Habdalah ceremony is performed. This is begun, in all cases, by pronouncing a benediction over a cup of wine, or, if wine can not be obtained, over any other beverage except water ordinarily used in the country where the ceremony takes place. At the conclusion of the Sabbath are added brief benedictions over spices and a freshly kindled light. These are followed by a lengthier benediction in which the distinction between the holy and the profane is emphasized, and thanks are given to God as the Author of this distinction.

Habdalah Light.

Blessing Over Light.