Hanukkah is observed to celebrate the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE. Celebrations include lighting of the Menorah, the 9-branch candelabrum that is the central symbol of celebration. One candle is lit on the first night of Hanukkah, two on the second night and so on, until all 8 candles are lit on the 8th night, a total of 44 candles in all. Knowing the order of which candle is lit when during the eight nights of Hanukkah is essential for the full celebration of the holiday.
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The Order of Lighting Hanukkah Candles
During the Hanukkah festival of lights, one of the most important elements is to light the Hanukkah Menorah in the proper order and with the correct blessings. This ritual is best done as a family with each of the family members having an important role in setting up the menorah and lighting each candle.
How to Light the Candles
Each night of Hanukkah, one additional candle is added to the menorah. The first night, a single candle is lit on the far right side. This is known as the shamash, or helper candle. On each subsequent night, one additional candle is lit to the left of that candle. The final candle, or the eighth night of Hanukkah, is lit on the far left of the menorah.
The Blessing
Before lighting the candles, a blessing is said. The exact blessing varies depending on the individual or family preference. There are traditional blessings such as the popular “Praise to You, O Lord our God, King of the universe, who has made us holy with Your commandments, and commanded us to kindle the lights of Hanukkah.”
To ensure that the candles remain lit for at least 1/2 hour, people will often say the Hanukkah blessing immediately following the lighting of the candles. This prayer is appropriate for any night of Hanukkah and it’s common for people to say it before eating any Hanukkah treats.
The Blessing After Lighting the Candles
After each night of lightning the Hanukkiah candles, the She-hecheyanu blessing is recited. This is a blessing of thanksgiving to God for allowing the person to experience the same holiday observance in a new year.
The She-hecheyanu blessing is said in the following way: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has granted us life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this season.”
Hanukkah is a time of joy and celebration in the Jewish faith, and observing the candle lighting is one of the most meaningful and important parts of the holiday. Following the prescribed order to light the candles each night reflects the values of the season and creates a meaningful and sacred holiday experience for families and individuals alike.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.