How Long to Burn a Memorial Candle on Yahrzeit

A Yahrzeit candle is lit on the anniversary of a loved one's death.

In Judaism, the anniversary of a relative or loved one's death is called Yarzheit, literally "anniversary." On that date, immediate family mark the occasion by lighting a Yarzheit candle, which must burn for at least 24 hours.

Significance

A Yahrzeit candle is designed to last at least 24 hours.

The word Yarzheit is from Yiddish, a language which is usually an amalgam of German and Hebrew. All mourners are traditionally expected to light a candle each year on the Hebrew anniversary of the loved one's death.

Expert Insight

It's tradition to light a Yahrzeit candles on Jewish holidays when the "Yizkor" or prayer for the dead is read.

Judaica-Guide.com notes that,"it is believed that the candle represents the soul of the departed." Other than on the Yarzheit, this candle is traditionally lit on the Jewish holidays of Yom Kippur, and the pilgrimage holidays, Shavuot, Sukkot and Passover.

Types

In Israel, residents also light Yahrzeit candles on their Memorial Day, and Holocaust Remembrance Day.

A real candle and wick, designed to burn at least 24 hours, is normally used. However, some may choose to use an electric candle or bulb. They may be uncomfortable leaving a candle burning for that length of time. The candle is lit in the evening, as Jewish holidays always start at sundown, the evening before.

References

• Jew Faq: Life, Death and Mourning
• Judaica Guide: Yahrzeit Candle