Lighting the menorah for Hanukkah is a time-honored tradition for Jews around the world. But before you light your menorah, you need to be aware of the direction in which you should light your Hanukkah candles. Understanding the direction of the Hanukkah candles can help ensure that you have a meaningful and respectful celebration.
The direction of the Hanukkah candles may seem like a small detail, but according to Jewish Halakha (Jewish law), it’s actually quite important. According to the Jewish sages, you should light your menorah from right to left. That means that when you’re lighting your menorah, you should begin with the candle farthest to the right and light your way towards the left until all the candles are lit.
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Why Do We Light the Candles Right to Left?
The reasons why we light the Hanukkah candles from right to left are not entirely clear, but according to some theories, this custom originated to show that the light of the menorah is increasing every night of the festival. This tradition may have come to represent the increasing spiritual height of the holiday.
What if I Light the Candles Left to Right?
If you make the mistake of lighting your menorah from left to right, it’s important not to fret too much. While this is not the traditional method of lighting the menorah, Halakha still considers it acceptable. That said, it’s a good idea to make sure you light your menorah from right to left moving forward, as this is the traditionally-accepted Jewish practice.
There are some instances in which lighting the menorah from left to right is actually preferred. If you have fewer than seven candles on your menorah, you should light it from left to right. This practice honors the memory of the six miracles which occurred during the time of the Maccabees, and only the seventh candle, the shammash, should be lit from right to left.
Where Should I Put My Menorah?
The location of your menorah is also an important consideration when you’re getting ready to light the Hanukkah candles. Generally speaking, your menorah should be placed in a place where you and your family can see it, preferably in a window, or somewhere where it can be seen by the public. This practice is meant to be a testament to the miracle of Hanukkah and to share its light with others.
Light Up Your Life with Hanukkah Joy
When you light your menorah this Hanukkah, keep in mind what a meaningful experience it can be. Understanding the direction of the Hanukkah candles can help ensure that you have a meaningful and respectful celebration. From right to left, your menorah will set your home aglow and add an extra special touch to your holiday season.
By understanding the direction of the Hanukkah candles and the significance of lighting the menorah in a window, you can make the most out of your Hanukkah celebration. With great joy and appreciation for the miracles of this special holiday, you can light your Hanukkah menorah and share the light with the world.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.