Hanukkah is an important holiday in the Jewish faith that celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. One of the most beloved traditions of Hanukkah is to light the Menorah, an eight-branched candelabrum. While many people know that the eight candles on the Menorah represent the eight days and nights of Hanukkah, the exact number of candles used over the life of the holiday may surprise some.
The number of candles that are lit over the course of the eight-night Hanukkah celebration depends on a few factors. On the first night, one candle is lit and is called the “shamash”. The shamash is used to light the other candles and is not counted as part of the eight lights of Hanukkah. On the following nights, one candle is added until all eight candles are lit by the eighth night. In total, 45 candles are lit over the entire Hanukkah celebration – one on the first night, two on the second night, three on the third night, and so on until all eight candles are lit on the eighth night.Types of Menorah Candles
When it comes to the types of candles that are used to light the Menorah, there are a few different options. Traditionally, the candles are made from either wax or oil, with most families preferring wax candles due to their convenience and price. In addition, many families also opt for ‘ electric menorahs as an additional option or instead of the traditional oil and wax candles.
Electric Menorahs
Electric Menorahs are becoming more popular on Hanukkah, as they provide a hassle-free way to light the candles. While some people prefer a more traditional approach, electric menorahs can provide a simple solution for those who don’t have the time or resources to light traditional wax or oil candles on a daily basis.
The Blessing on Hanukkah
Before lighting the candles, there is a traditional blessing that is recited. In English, the blessing is:
- Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech haolam, shehecheyanu, v’kiyemanu, v’higiyanu lazman hazeh.
Which translates to “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has kept us alive, sustained us, and brought us to this season.”
While the exact number of candles used during Hanukkah varies slightly depending on the type of Menorah and candles used, the total number of candles used over the eight-night celebration is always 45 – one for the first night, two for the second night, and so on until eight candles are lit on the eighth night. No matter what type of Menorah or candles are used, the Hanukkah celebration is an important part of the Jewish faith and a time for families to come together and light the Menorah, recite the blessing, and celebrate the holiday.
The tradition of lighting the Menorah is a beautiful reminder of the miracles of Hanukkah and is something that is celebrated for generations in Jewish homes worldwide. Even in these modern times, lighting the Menorah is a way to remember our roots and celebrate the miracle of that burning oil for eight days and nights.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.