▷ How Do You Light The Hanukkah Candles?

Lighting the Hanukkah candles is an important part of the Jewish holiday. This ancient and beautiful tradition is full of symbolism and meaning, and is one of the most enjoyable and anticipated customs during Hanukkah.

Before lighting the Hanukkah candles, be sure you have nine candles and a specialized Hanukkah menorah. In Jewish tradition, it’s customary to use olive oil for the lighting; this oil symbolizes struggle, faith, and victory.

Table of Contents

1 Step-by-Step Guide To Lighting the Hanukkah Menorah

Step-by-Step Guide To Lighting the Hanukkah Menorah

Step One: Arrange the Menorah

Fill the menorah with the nine hanukkah candles. Place one candle, the shamash or servant, in the middle and the other eight candles in their respective holders to the left. Note that the Shamash candle should be a bit taller and distinctly identifiable from the others.

Step Two: Place the Candles on the Menorah

Recite a blessing or prayer while placing the candles. The Shamash candle is placed first. Start on the far right side, one candle in each holder until the last holder is filled, ending on the far left.

Step Three: Light the Shamash Candle

Light the shamash candle first. Using a match or lighter, light the Shamash candle and then use it to kindle the other eight candles. Again be sure to start on the far right, lighting the other candles from right to left.

Step Four: Enjoy the Lighting

Recite the appropriate blessings as you light the Hanukkah Menorah. On the first night of Hanukkah, recite the blessing below. On the subsequent nights, recite the blessing at the beginning followed by the phrase from the end.

Blessing for the first night: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Hanukkah light”
Blessing for subsequent nights: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in those days at this season”

Once all candles are lit, let them burn for at least 30 minutes–or for as long as desired. Finally, say the blessings with the family (if applicable).

Lighting the Hanukkah candles unites the community together with a shared ritual that encapsulates faith, history, and resilience. The Hanukkah holiday is a wonderful occasion to come together, light the Menorah, and celebrate the strength of the Jewish faith.

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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.