In many communities it is customary to bless one's children on Friday night before the Shabbat meal. Traditionally, the priestly blessing is recited, followed by the blessing Jacob bestowed upon Ephraim and Menasseh, Joseph's sons, or, for daughters, a blessing that they follow in the footsteps of our saintly Matriarchs. Following is a translation from Chabad.org's Shabbat Wizard:
The L-rd spoke to Moses saying: Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying: This is how you shall bless the children of Israel, saying to them: 'May the L-rd bless you and watch over you. May the L-rd cause His countenance to shine to you and favor you. May the L-rd raise His countenance toward you and grant you peace.' They shall bestow My Name upon the children of Israel, and I will bless them."
[For a son:] May G‑d make you like Ephraim and Menasseh.
[For a daughter:] May G‑d make you like Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah.
Best wishes,
Chani Benjaminson
Chabad.org
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