EXODUS 20:9

We learn in the very first chapter of the Hebrew Bible that after six days spent creating the world and all the beings that live within it, God took the seventh day as a day of rest. Many of the commandments we fulfill are a way of showing God we strive to emulate our Creator and Shabbat is no different. Just as God rested on the seventh day, so too do Jews all over the world refrain for 25 hours from any form of work. In this way, we can show our Beloved Hashem how deeply we cherish Him and His commandments. To welcome in the Sabbath, we are instructed to light the flames and make a special blessing on a cup filled with wine. Doing thus initiaties the serious, spiritual and uplifting day that is Shabbat.

Source: Israel in the News