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    Who is obligated to light Shabbat candles?

    Everyone is obligated. The custom is that when a woman is present, she has priority to light and bless. When there's no woman, the man lights

    Source: Shulchan Aruch OC 263

    In detail

    Everyone in the household is obligated to have Shabbat candles lit. The custom is that the woman of the house has priority to light — this connects to the idea that women bring light and peace into the home. When no woman is present, a man lights. Single men and women living alone light for themselves. Some have the custom that all women in the household light their own candles.

    Full study guide: Shabbat

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