Yahrzeit Candle on Rosh Hashanah: A Quick Guide to Lighting Traditions

The Yahrzeit candle is traditionally lit in memory of a loved one on the anniversary of their passing according to the Hebrew calendar. But what happens when this meaningful date coincides with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year—a time marked by its own distinct rituals and halachic (Jewish legal) considerations?

On Rosh Hashanah, as with all Jewish festivals, certain restrictions apply to fire and electricity usage. Lighting a Yahrzeit candle becomes a question navigated by both tradition and religious law:

1. If Rosh Hashanah begins before nightfall (as it normally does), those commemorating the Yahrzeit should light the candle **before** the holiday officially starts—ideally shortly before candle lighting for Rosh Hashanah itself.
2. If the Yahrzeit falls on the second night of Rosh Hashanah, lighting is permitted from a pre-existing flame (one that was burning since before the holiday began), as transferring fire is allowed on major holidays for a holiday need.
3. On Yom Tov (Jewish festivals, including Rosh Hashanah), lighting a new fire (such as striking a match) is not permitted, but transferring an existing flame is. That's why many use a long-lasting candle to act as a source over the holiday.

As a designer, I always recommend thinking ahead about how tradition interacts with modern living. Integrating these rituals into your home—perhaps with a designated space for remembrance or a subtle, elegant candle holder—can honor memory and design. Thoughtfully designed spaces for observance not only elevate the aesthetic, but also provide a meaningful focal point within your living area. For those looking for ways to thoughtfully incorporate ritual items, planning with tools like Home Designer can help create dedicated and harmonious areas that balance form and function.

Tips 1:

Plan ahead by ensuring you have a long-lasting Yahrzeit candle that can be lit before the holiday starts. Consider incorporating the candle into a dedicated space within your home, blending tradition with your personal design style.

FAQ

Q: Can I light a Yahrzeit candle on Rosh Hashanah itself?

A: You may only transfer a flame from an existing fire on Rosh Hashanah. Prepare ahead by lighting the Yahrzeit candle before the holiday or use a pre-existing flame for the second night.

Q: Why is the Yahrzeit candle important?

A: The Yahrzeit candle symbolizes the soul of the departed and brings light to their memory during the anniversary of their passing.

Q: What if I forgot to light the candle before the holiday?

A: If the day has already begun and you have not lit the candle, you may ask a non-Jewish person to light it for you, or wait until after the holiday.

Q: Can I use an electric Yahrzeit candle?

A: Many authorities permit using an electric Yahrzeit candle when open flame is not possible, but the traditional candle is preferred when feasible.

Q: How can I meaningfully incorporate the Yahrzeit candle into my home design?

A: Consider a purpose-built shelf or niche in a communal area that respects the candle's solemnity and harmonizes with your decor—thoughtful design enhances both remembrance and your living space.