Should one recite the blessing before or after lighting the Shabbat candles?

Synopsis

The Mechaber states one blesses when lighting (implying before). The Rema records two opinions — before and after — and rules that the custom is to light first, cover the eyes, bless, and then uncover, which counts as 'over la-asiyatan' (before the act).

Early Acharonim
Late Acharonim
Lenient
Strict
Lesser cited
Major authority

Discussion

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