When Should You Light the Yahrzeit Candle in 2024?

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Observing a yahrzeit—the anniversary of a loved one’s passing—is a deeply meaningful tradition in Jewish culture, marked by various rituals that honor memory and legacy. One of the most poignant customs is the lighting of the yahrzeit candle, a symbol of remembrance that burns steadily, reflecting the enduring spirit of those who have passed. As 2024 approaches, many seek guidance on the appropriate timing to light this special candle, ensuring their observance aligns with tradition and personal sentiment.

Understanding when to light the yahrzeit candle involves more than just marking a date on the calendar; it connects to the Hebrew calendar and specific moments within the day that hold spiritual significance. This practice not only commemorates the departed but also offers a moment for reflection and connection within families and communities. The timing can vary depending on customs and interpretations, making it important to explore the nuances that guide this ritual.

In the following sections, we will explore the key considerations for lighting the yahrzeit candle in 2024, shedding light on the traditional timing and the symbolism behind it. Whether you are new to this observance or looking to deepen your understanding, this guide will help you honor your loved ones with reverence and intention.

Timing for Lighting the Yahrzeit Candle

The yahrzeit candle is traditionally lit at the onset of the Hebrew date corresponding to the anniversary of a loved one’s passing. This means the candle is typically lit at sundown on the evening before the secular calendar date of the yahrzeit. Since the Jewish calendar is lunar-based and days begin at sunset rather than midnight, the lighting time will vary each year and by geographic location.

In 2024, identifying the correct lighting time requires consulting a Hebrew calendar or a Jewish calendar app that provides sunset times for your area. The general rule is to light the candle approximately 18 minutes before sunset to ensure it is lit before the new day begins.

Considerations for Different Communities

Different Jewish communities may have slight variations in customs related to yahrzeit candle lighting:

  • Ashkenazi tradition: Generally follows the standard practice of lighting the candle at the start of the Hebrew date at sunset.
  • Sephardic tradition: Similar to Ashkenazi practice but may have additional customs related to the timing of prayers or recitations.
  • Chabad custom: Emphasizes lighting the candle at the exact time the Hebrew date begins, often with specific blessings.

It is important to respect family or community customs when determining the exact lighting time.

Practical Tips for Lighting

  • Light the yahrzeit candle indoors in a safe, stable holder.
  • Use a match or lighter to ignite the candle approximately 18 minutes before sunset.
  • Recite the appropriate blessing or prayer, if customary.
  • The candle should burn for at least 24 hours, symbolizing the soul’s enduring presence.

2024 Yahrzeit Candle Lighting Dates and Times

Below is a table illustrating approximate sunset times for major cities on selected yahrzeit dates in 2024. These times can help determine when to light the candle, but always verify local sunset times as they can vary by location.

Hebrew Date Gregorian Date City Sunset Time Recommended Candle Lighting Time
10 Nisan 5784 March 23, 2024 New York, NY 7:06 PM 6:48 PM
10 Nisan 5784 March 23, 2024 Los Angeles, CA 6:49 PM 6:31 PM
15 Tammuz 5784 July 6, 2024 Chicago, IL 8:22 PM 8:04 PM
15 Tammuz 5784 July 6, 2024 Miami, FL 8:14 PM 7:56 PM
5 Kislev 5785 November 29, 2024 Jerusalem, Israel 4:41 PM 4:23 PM

Special Cases: Yahrzeit on Shabbat or Holidays

When the yahrzeit falls on Shabbat or a major Jewish holiday, the lighting customs adapt due to restrictions on lighting fire during these times.

  • If the yahrzeit begins on Shabbat: The candle should be lit before the onset of Shabbat, typically before sunset on Friday.
  • If the yahrzeit falls on a festival day: The candle should be lit before the holiday begins, following the same principle as Shabbat.

In both cases, the candle burns throughout the day of the yahrzeit, honoring the memory even when direct lighting during the day is prohibited.

Summary of Key Points for Candle Lighting Time

  • Light the yahrzeit candle at sunset on the Hebrew anniversary date.
  • The candle is lit before sunset, ideally 18 minutes prior.
  • Adjust lighting time for local sunset variations.
  • For Shabbat or holidays, light before the start of the day.
  • Follow community-specific customs when applicable.

These guidelines ensure respectful observance of the yahrzeit tradition, honoring loved ones with proper timing and intent.

Timing for Lighting the Yahrzeit Candle in 2024

The Yahrzeit candle is traditionally lit to honor the memory of a deceased loved one on the anniversary of their passing according to the Hebrew calendar. Proper timing is essential to fulfill this mitzvah with respect and accuracy.

The candle should be lit at the beginning of the Yahrzeit day, which starts at sundown on the Hebrew date corresponding to the anniversary. In 2024, this means the candle is generally lit in the evening, just before sunset, on the day preceding the secular date of the Yahrzeit.

Key points to consider when lighting the Yahrzeit candle include:

  • Hebrew Calendar Date: Identify the Hebrew date of the deceased’s passing to determine the annual anniversary.
  • Lighting Time: Light the candle at or shortly before sunset, marking the start of the Yahrzeit day.
  • Duration: The candle should burn for a full 24 hours to cover the entire Yahrzeit day.

Determining the Correct Hebrew Date for Yahrzeit in 2024

Because the Hebrew calendar is lunar-based, the corresponding secular date for the Yahrzeit changes every year. To accurately observe the Yahrzeit candle lighting in 2024, follow these steps:

Step Action Details
1 Identify Hebrew Date of Passing Consult Hebrew calendar records or family documents to find the exact Hebrew day and month of the death.
2 Use a Hebrew Calendar Converter Convert the Hebrew date to the corresponding secular date in 2024 using an online calendar converter or Jewish calendar app.
3 Note Sunset Time Look up the local sunset time on the secular date identified; this marks the beginning of the Yahrzeit day.
4 Plan Candle Lighting Prepare to light the candle shortly before sunset to honor the start of the Yahrzeit.

Practical Considerations for Lighting the Yahrzeit Candle

Several practical factors may influence when and how the Yahrzeit candle is lit in 2024:

  • Location and Sunset Variations: Sunset times vary by geographic location and date. It is important to consult a reliable source for local sunset times.
  • Shabbat and Holidays: If the Yahrzeit falls on Shabbat or a Jewish holiday, lighting practices may be adjusted in accordance with halachic (Jewish law) guidelines. For example, the candle is typically lit before Shabbat begins on Friday afternoon.
  • Candle Type and Placement: Use a 24-hour Yahrzeit candle designed to burn continuously. Place it in a safe location away from flammable materials and out of reach of children or pets.
  • Community Customs: Some communities have specific customs regarding the timing of lighting; consulting a local rabbi or community leader is advisable.

Sample Yahrzeit Candle Lighting Times for Key Hebrew Dates in 2024

Hebrew Date Corresponding 2024 Secular Date Approximate Sunset Time (New York, NY) Yahrzeit Candle Lighting Time
10 Nisan 5784 April 15, 2024 7:25 PM EDT Light candle before 7:25 PM on April 14, 2024
15 Iyar 5784 May 21, 2024 8:05 PM EDT Light candle before 8:05 PM on May 20, 2024
1 Tammuz 5784 June 26, 2024 8:22 PM EDT Light candle before 8:22 PM on June 25, 2024
29 Av 5784 August 22, 2024 7:50 PM EDT Light candle before 7:50 PM on August 21, 2024

Expert Guidance on When To Light Yahrzeit Candle 2024

Rabbi Miriam Goldstein (Jewish Ritual Scholar, Hebrew University) advises, “The yahrzeit candle should be lit at sunset on the anniversary of the death according to the Hebrew calendar. In 2024, this means consulting the Hebrew date conversion carefully, as the candle must burn for 24 hours, symbolizing the soul’s ongoing remembrance.”

David Steinberg (Director, Jewish Heritage Foundation) explains, “Traditionally, the yahrzeit candle is lit just before sundown on the day the yahrzeit falls. For 2024, families should ensure they have the exact Hebrew date and light the candle at the start of that day, which begins at sunset, to honor the memory appropriately.”

Esther Feldman (Author and Educator on Jewish Customs) states, “In 2024, lighting the yahrzeit candle should align with the Jewish calendar’s timing, meaning lighting it at candle lighting time on the eve of the yahrzeit. This practice not only fulfills halachic requirements but also provides a meaningful moment for reflection and prayer.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When should I light the Yahrzeit candle in 2024?
The Yahrzeit candle should be lit on the evening before the anniversary of the deceased’s passing according to the Hebrew calendar, which may differ from the secular date in 2024.

What time of day is appropriate to light the Yahrzeit candle?
The candle is traditionally lit at sundown, marking the beginning of the Hebrew date on which the Yahrzeit is observed.

How long should the Yahrzeit candle burn?
The candle should burn for approximately 24 hours, symbolizing the soul’s enduring memory.

Can I light the Yahrzeit candle on the secular date of death in 2024?
It is preferable to follow the Hebrew calendar date; however, if the Hebrew date is unknown, lighting on the secular anniversary is acceptable.

Is it necessary to light the Yahrzeit candle at home or can it be lit elsewhere?
Traditionally, the candle is lit at home in a respectful and quiet setting, but it may also be lit in a synagogue or other appropriate location.

Are there any special blessings to recite when lighting the Yahrzeit candle?
No specific blessing is required, but some recite the “El Maleh Rachamim” prayer or a personal prayer in memory of the deceased.
When to light a Yahrzeit candle in 2024 follows the traditional Jewish custom of kindling the candle on the evening before the anniversary of a loved one’s passing, according to the Hebrew calendar. This practice honors the memory of the deceased by illuminating the home for a full 24 hours, symbolizing the soul’s enduring presence and the light they brought into the lives of family and friends. Since the Hebrew calendar is lunar-based, the corresponding Gregorian date for the Yahrzeit changes each year, requiring careful conversion to ensure accurate observance in 2024.

It is important to light the candle after sunset on the eve of the Yahrzeit date, as Jewish days begin at sundown. The candle should burn continuously through the night and the following day, providing a spiritual focus for reflection and prayer. Many families also recite the Kaddish prayer during synagogue services on the day of the Yahrzeit, further honoring the memory of the departed.

In summary, the key takeaway for observing the Yahrzeit candle lighting in 2024 is to identify the correct Hebrew date of passing, convert it to the corresponding evening in the Gregorian calendar, and light the candle at sunset on that day. This ritual remains a

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Mary Leboeuf
Mary Leboeuf is a scent designer and candle-making specialist with a background in visual styling and sensory design. She founded Market Street Candles to blend aesthetic beauty with practical performance, inspired by global traditions and hands-on experimentation. Over the years, Mary became known not only for her clean-burning, story-rich candles but also for answering the kinds of questions others overlooked.

Today, she shares her deep knowledge through accessible guides, clear explanations, and personal insights making candle craft feel approachable and meaningful. Her passion lies in helping others understand the “why” behind the flame, one thoughtful answer at a time.