Havdalah Questions and Answers

Why Do We Smell Aromatic Spices (Besamim) at Havdalah?

by Yehuda Shurpin

Learn some reasons you may have known, as well as some that are bound to surprise you.

What's the significance of the Havdalah ceremony?

By Yossi Braun

That last bear hug is different than its predecessors. Whereas till now the cuddles and hugs assisted in cementing the relationship, the final embrace takes it one step further...

2 Comments

Why do we gaze at our fingernails in the light of the havdallah candle?

By Naftali Silberberg

9 Comments

Why “He who creates the illuminations of fire” shouldn’t it be singular?

In the Havdalah, we bless “He who creates the illuminations of fire.” Shouldn’t it be “illumination,” in the singular?

By Yosef Marcus

Why dip a finger into the leftover wine?

Why do people dip their finger into the leftover havdalah wine?

By Menachem Posner

1 Comment

Why Do We Make a Blessing on Fire on Saturday Night?

The story of the havdalah candle goes back to the very first Shabbat in history

by Yehuda Shurpin

3 Comments