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.