there are many things jews do to celebrate shabbat [see shabbat (celebrating shabbat)]. the minimum way to celebrate is to say the blessing "blessed are you, god, who makes shabbat holy." the talmud adds that the blessing should be said with a cup of wine. this is because wine makes people feel happy. because of this, the friday evening meal in a jewish home starts with a ceremony to say this blessing over a cup of wine.