Traditional Hanukkah candles are traditionally made of beeswax, but today, a variety of materials can be used. The 8-day Jewish holiday, Hanukkah is also known as the Festival of Lights and Celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple. On each night of Hanukkah, an additional candle is added to the Hanukkah Menorah. To commemorate the ancient victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian-Greeks, the faithful light the menorah as an act of remembrance. Candles made specifically for this occasion must conform to halachic standards.
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Traditional Hanukkah Candles
Traditional Hanukkah candles are typically made of beeswax, which is considered pure and natural. The use of beeswax for the Hanukkah candles is rooted in its symbolism, as it captures the joy of celebration. In addition, beeswax has a long-standing tradition that connects it to the mitzvah of kindling the menorah. The purity of beeswax makes it a fitting material for honoring the mitzvah.
Behinot of Hanukkah Candles
When making Hanukkah candles there are some standard requisites, or behinot, that must be followed to ensure they conform to halachic standards. These behinot include the size, the amount of wax used, and the type of wick used.
The size should be at least long enough so that it will continue to burn for the minimum amount of time a person needs to fulfill the mitzvah, which is usually half an hour.
The wax should not contain any additives and should be at least ½ cm thick.
The wick should be cotton, pure wool, or a mixture of cotton and linen.
Contemporary Hanukkah Candles
These days, in addition to beeswax traditional Hanukkah candles, a variety of materials are being used to make menorah candles. Materials such as paraffin wax, gel-fuel, and other materials are popular and can be used to construct menorah candles that may burn for longer periods of time. However, it is important to be aware that halachic guidelines must still be adhered to when constructing the menorah candles, whether the material is traditional or not.
Materials and Their Benefits
- Paraffin Wax – paraffin wax produces virtually no smoke and burns for up to two hours.
- Gel-fuel – gel-fuel is a gel/water mixture that uses a cotton wick and also produces no smoke. Similarly to paraffin, it also burns up to two hours.
When deciding which materials to use for the candles remember that each have their own benefits. Traditional Hanukkah candles made of beeswax are ideal for capturing the joy and purity that comes with commemorating the mitzvah of kindling the menorah, while materials such as paraffin and gel-fuel may burn for longer periods of time if needed. As always, halachic standards should be respected when making Hanukkah candles.
No matter what material you choose, the act of lighting the menorah is a truly special and celebrated act, which connects us to the ancient Maccabees, their resiliency, and unwavering faith.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.