Arukh HaShulchan, Orach Chaim 263:16-22

Sugya Map

• Issue: The fundamental ta'am (reason) for the mitzvah of Hadlakas Ner Shabbos.
• Nafka Mina(s): Affects hiddur requirements, placement of candles, and perhaps even the primary chiyuv (obligation) for men vs. women.
• Primary Sources: Rambam, Hil. Shabbos 5:1; Rashi (cited by AHS); Arukh HaShulchan, Orach Chaim 263:16-22.

Text Snapshot

The Arukh HaShulchan presents the core tension:

"וכיון שכתב הרמב"ם שכלל זה הוא בכלל עונג שבת... אולם רש"י טעם אחר כתב, משום כבוד שבת..."^ [1] This leshan highlights the divergence: Rambam links ner Shabbos to Oneg (pleasure), while Rashi attributes it to Kavod (honor). The dikduk of "אולם" (however) emphasizes the contrasting rationales, setting up a classic machloket.

Readings

Rambam (Hil. Shabbos 5:1)

His chiddush is framing Hadlakas Ner Shabbos squarely within Oneg Shabbos, to the extent that one must beg for oil to fulfill it. This underscores its centrality to the Shabbos experience.

Rashi (cited by AHS 263:17)

Rashi's chiddush is rooting the mitzvah in Kavod Shabbos, likening it to preparing a dignified feast. The light ensures the meal isn't eaten "like in a dungeon," but in a respected manner.^ [2]

Friction

The strongest kushya is reconciling these two seemingly distinct rationales. Is the light for oneg (comfort, enjoyment) or kavod (dignity, respect)? The Arukh HaShulchan implicitly grapples with this, ultimately presenting both as valid, albeit divergent, foundations. The terutz (implicit in the AHS) is that both oneg and kavod are integral facets of Shabbos observance, and ner Shabbos may serve to enhance both, with Rishonim emphasizing different aspects.

Intertext

The distinction between Oneg and Kavod Shabbos appears elsewhere. For example, Tosefta Berachos 3:13 discusses kavod through clean clothes and oneg through good food. Similarly, Pesachim 100a regarding oneg of wine vs. kavod through the sanctity of Kiddush itself.

Psak/Practice

The Arukh HaShulchan concludes that regardless of the ta'am, hadlakas ner Shabbos is a chiyuv for both men and women, with a bracha. The practical nafka mina often revolves around hiddur: if oneg, perhaps more emphasis on brightness; if kavod, on placement and visibility. The AHS, by presenting both, suggests we should strive for both kavod and oneg in our ner Shabbos.

Takeaway

The ner Shabbos illuminates not just our homes, but a profound machloket about the very essence of Shabbos: is it primarily a day of pleasure or honor? Ultimately, it's both, reflecting the multifaceted nature of kedushas Shabbos.

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^ [1] Arukh HaShulchan, Orach Chaim 263:17 ^ [2] See also Rashi on Shabbos 25b s.v. "הדלקת נר בשבת חובה"