Hanukkah is a joyous time for Jewish people around the world. The holiday reaffirms the Jewish commitment to fighting for freedom and religious expression, and the centerpiece of Hanukkah observance is the Menorah—a nine-branched candelabrum symbolizing the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days. Lighting the menorah is a beautiful ritual that helps Jews give thanks for what they have been given. Here are the basics of how to light a Hanukkah menorah.
Table of Contents
How to Light a Hanukkah Menorah?
Materials
- Oil or pre-filled candles (called “Hanukkah lights”)
- Matches or lighter
- Hanukkah Menorah
The Blessing
At the beginning of Hanukkah, it is traditional to say a prayer known as the “Blessing for Lighting the Menorah.” Before lighting the candles, a person recites the blessing in Hebrew and then in English:
“Blessed are You, Lord, our God, King of the Universe, Who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the lights of Hanukkah.”
Lighting the Menorah
- Locate the topmost branch on the menorah. It should be situated in the middle and slightly elevated from the other branches.
- Place the menorah in a spot that will be seen by all.
- For the first night of Hanukkah, light the topmost branch.
- On each successive night of Hanukkah, add one more flame on a lower branch.
- Light the lights from left to right.
- Start with the candle on the right side of the topmost branch and move one candle to the left each time.
- The ninth branch should not be lit because it is considered the servant candle.
- If using oil, fill the oil receptacles halfway and place a wick in each one.
- Light each wick with a match or a lighter.
- If using pre-filled candles, simply insert them into the appropriates hole in the menorah.
The Aftermath
Once the menorah is lit, it should be left burning for at least an hour to fulfill the commandment.
This tradition of the Hanukkah menorah has been carried on for centuries, and it symbolizes Jewish resistance to oppression of any kind. Lighting the menorah is not only a religious requirement, but also a way to honor those who valiantly fought for the Jewish people. Not only is the menorah lighting a cherished ritual for families, but it is also a way to remember the miracle of Hanukkah.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.