Thus shall the children of Israel observe the Sabbath, to make the Sabbath throughout their generations as an everlasting covenant. (Exodus 31:16)
For countless generations, the Jewish people have been observing Shabbat by lighting candles before sunset on Friday night. The prophet Isaiah called the Sabbath "a delight - G‑d’s holy day honored." We honor Shabbat by partaking of fine meals while our table is illuminated by lights that bring peace and delight into our homes.
In the painting, the myriad candles reflect many generations of lights. These jewel-like candles illuminate an elaborate table. They form a corridor in time (suggesting the lights of both of the past and the future). Our sages have compared the days of the week to a corridor which leads to the great banquet hall called Shabbat.
And G d blessed each and every Shabbat and made it holy, and all Jews should light their candles allowing them to become a part of the many many candles lit over the many Shabbats over centuries of G d’s appointed times to spend with his people in prayer, peace, love and harmony.
G d’s blessings to those who have and continue to uphold will be many, making us stronger to face whatever adversities we must face over the many many more Shabbats to come. Raise your cups of the fruits of the vines, and break your breads, sing, pray, rest and enjoy the people seated around you both in person and spirit and be glad that we, as Jews have a loving and compassionate G d who ordained all Shabbats as holy times to be spent with him.