▷ How Many Candles Are In A Hanukkah Menorah?

Hanukkah is a Jewish festival of dedication which is celebrated each year for eight days. It is a part of the Jewish holiday tradition and is a time of joy and celebration. A key aspect of the holiday celebration is the lighting of the menorah, or Hanukkah candelabra. An important part of this tradition is to understand how many candles are typically placed within the menorah.

The menorah is a nine-branch candelabrum, which is lit for eight days during the holiday celebration. While each branch of the menorah is symbolic of one of the eight days of Hanukkah, the center branch is known as the shamash, or “the servant” and serves to light all the other candles. Although the other eight branches of the menorah may hold any kind of candle, including seven-day candles, many choose to place eight candles in the menorah – typically in different colors – to distinguish each day of the celebration.

Symbolism of the Menorah

It is said that when the Temple was rededicated, the single day’s worth of consecrated oil miraculously lasted for eight days, and the light that was lit was used to show the world the power of the Maccabees. To commemorate this miracle, the followers of Judaism celebrate the eight days of Hanukkah by lighting a nine-branched candelabrum in conjunction with reciting special prayers throughout the whole holiday period. Each night, a fresh candle is lit while the shamash is used to light the others.

Length of the Hanukkah Candles

The length of the candles used for the celebration can vary. Typically, the longest burning candles are chosen – those lasting eight days – so that the light will last throughout the celebration. However, many people use regular taper candles – either tea candles or shorter taper candles – instead, and light a new candle each night.

Duties of the Menorah during Hanukkah

The menorah also serves as a symbol of freedom and the commitment which Jews have for their faith. Because Hanukkah lasts for eight days, each night a new candle is lit. Each night holiday prayers are recited and the candles are displayed prominently where the entire family can take part in the celebration. The menorah not only symbolizes the holiness of the holidays, it serves as a reminder of the miracles and freedom that have been granted to the followers of Judaism.

In sum, a Hanukkah menorah traditionally holds nine candles, eight to represent the eight days of the holiday period, and the ninth, the shamash, to light the other eight. The candles can be of any type, typically taper or tea lights, or special candles designed to burn throughout the entire period. The menorah serves as a reminder of the miracles, faith and freedom that is commemorated by the followers of Judaism and their faith.

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