Arukh HaShulchan, Orach Chaim 263:1-7

Hook

"Oneg Shabbos" vs. "Kavod Shabbos" – you might think these are two sides of the same coin, but the Arukh HaShulchan shows us how deeply the reason for a mitzvah can shape its essence.

Context

The Arukh HaShulchan, authored by Rabbi Yechiel Michel Epstein in the late 19th century, is a monumental work that often synthesizes vast halakhic literature, including earlier codes and commentaries, to provide practical rulings. Here, he's navigating a foundational debate about the very nature of a well-known mitzvah.

Text Snapshot

The Rambam wrote, "...it is an obligation for both men and women to have in their homes a light for Shabbos...because this (light) is included in "Shabbos Pleasure" (the mitzveh to have Oneg Shabbos)." "...Rashi explains the reason is 'Honoring Shabbos' (Kavod Shabbos) since you can only hold an important feast in a well lit place." "So according to Rashi, (the reason we light a Shabbos candle) is not because of "Shabbos Pleasure" (Oneg Shabbos) but rather due to "Honoring Shabbos" (Kavod Shabbos)." (Arukh HaShulchan, Orach Chaim 263:1-7 — https://www.sefaria.org/Arukh_HaShulchan%2C_Orach_Chaim_263%3A1-7)

Close Reading

Structure

The Arukh HaShulchan masterfully presents the Rambam's clear assertion that Shabbos candles are for Oneg Shabbos, then immediately pivots to introduce Rashi's counterpoint. This direct juxtaposition highlights a fundamental, even surprising, disagreement about the primary rationale.

Key Term

The distinction between "Oneg Shabbos" (Shabbos Pleasure) and "Kavod Shabbos" (Honoring Shabbos) is pivotal. While both are positive expressions, oneg emphasizes personal enjoyment and comfort, whereas kavod underscores the dignity and reverence due to the day itself, akin to preparing for royalty.

Tension

The core tension lies in whether the obligation to light candles stems from the need to facilitate a pleasant, enjoyable Shabbos experience (Rambam), or from the inherent need to show respect and honor for Shabbos, making the environment suitable for its sanctity (Rashi).

Two Angles

The Rambam, as presented here, grounds the mitzvah of candle lighting squarely in Oneg Shabbos, implying the light's purpose is to enhance the enjoyment of the day's physical and spiritual dimensions. Without light, one might stumble or eat in darkness, diminishing the pleasure. Rashi, however, shifts the emphasis to Kavod Shabbos, arguing that the honor of Shabbos demands a well-lit setting, just as one would prepare a grand hall for an important feast. This isn't primarily about personal comfort, but about the inherent dignity of the day itself.

Practice Implication

Understanding this debate can subtly inform your candle-lighting choices. If oneg is primary, you might prioritize the functional quality of light for eating and activities. If kavod is paramount, you might focus more on the aesthetic and ceremonial aspects, ensuring the light appropriately honors the day, even in areas where its practical utility is less direct.

Chevruta Mini

1. If you had limited oil, would you prioritize lighting in the dining room where you eat (more focused on oneg) or perhaps in a prominent location visible upon entering your home (leaning towards kavod)? What does this choice reveal about your personal emphasis?
2. How might the "oneg" vs. "kavod" distinction influence your decision regarding lighting many small, decorative candles that provide little practical illumination, versus one or two bright, functional ones?

Takeaway

The why behind lighting Shabbos candles profoundly shapes our appreciation and fulfillment of this foundational mitzvah.