A yahrzeit candle also spelled yahrtzeit candle or called a memorial candle (Hebrew: ner neshama) is a type of candle that is lit in memory of the dead in Judaism.

This electric memorial yahrzeit lamp has the word “Memory” inscribed in English, as well as, “Yizkor” in Hebrew. A yahrzeit candle or a memorial candle (ner neshama, meaning “soul candle”) is a type of candle that is lit in memory of the dead in Judaism.

The yahrzeit candle is lit during the week of Shiva (mourning). It is also lit at sundown on the eve of the yahrzeit (anniversary of the death) and at sundown preceding the start of Yom Kippur and at sundown preceding the last day of Succot, Passover and Shavuot. These holidays all have yizkor (memorial) in synagogue as well. Many observant Jews light Yahrzeit candles at the start of holidays which last for two or three days in order to allow the lighting of candles on other days, since on holidays other Shabbat and Yom Kippur lighting of flames is prohibited, while transfer of fire is permitted.