▷ How Many Candles Are Lit Over The Course Of Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is a widely celebrated Jewish holiday that marks the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The holiday is celebrated for eight days and nights, and part of the tradition involves the lighting of increasing candles each night. So, how many candles are lit over the course of Hanukkah?

The answer is that an increasing number of candles is lit over the eight nights of Hanukkah. It all starts with the lighting of the Shamash – a piece of solid wax that’s used to light all of the other candles – on the first night. That’s followed by the lighting of a single candle, called the hanukiah, on each of the following nights. The number of candles increases by one each night, so on the sixth night, for example, six candles will be lit. By the time the eighth night has rolled around, all eight candles of the hanukiah will have been lit in celebration of the successful rededication of the Second Temple.

The Meaning Behind The Candles

The candles that are lit each night of Hanukkah celebrate the miracle that happened long ago. When the Maccabees rededicated the Second Temple, only enough oil for one night was found. But, incredibly, the fire and the oil lit up for an incredible eight nights – this is why there are eight candles that are lit during Hanukkah. The lights also represent hope, faith and joy, so the entire family gathers around the hanukiah each night and celebrates.

The Blessing Over The Candles

Each night when the candles are being lit, a special Jewish blessing is said. The blessing includes a special prayer for peace, health and revenge against the enemies. It is said in Hebrew, and there are various other verses that can be said over the candles. Once the blessing is finished, the family will give thanks for all the gifts that they have, such as faith, peace and health.

Conclusion: How Many Candles Are Lit Over The Course Of Hanukkah?

So, to answer the question, the final count of candles that are lit over the course of Hanukkah is eight: one candle is lit on the first night, two candles are lit on the second night, three candles are lit on the third night and so on. Each candle represents the miracle of the rededication of the Second Temple and reminds us to give thanks for all that we have.

Hanukkah is truly a special holiday that brings family and friends together to celebrate the miracle of long ago. It is symbolized through the lighting of the hanukiah over eight nights, as a reminder that faith and hope can transcend any difficulty.

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