Hanukkah is a joyful eight-day Jewish holiday celebrated in the winter months to commemorate the rededication of the Second Temple after its recapture by the Maccabees from the Syrians. One of the most important symbols of the festival is the menorah – a candelabrum that holds 9 candlesticks. But what are the candles for Hanukkah called?
The candles used on a Hanukkah menorah are called Hanukkah candles or Chanukah candles. They are usually made from beeswax and have a certain traditional look. Specifically, the candles must be taller than any other candle that may be used in the Hanukkah display, as this symbolizes the commandment of “raising up” and “publicizing” the miracle of Hanukkah. The candles typically come in sets of 8, plus a 9th candle called a “shamash”. This candle is used to light the other eight Hanukkah candles, and illuminated by its flame the eight candles are used for special observances related to the celebration of the festival.
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Different Types of Candles on a Hanukkah Menorah
Hanukkah Candles
These are standard-shaped candles used on the Hanukkah menorah. Most sets of Hanukkah candles include all eight candles, and one shamash. The candles are also usually made of wax and are different from regular candles used in other religious ceremonies.
Yahrzeit Candles
Yahrzeit candles are special, long- burning candles used to commemorate the anniversary of a death. On the anniversary of a person’s death, a Yahrzeit candle is lit on the Hanukkah menorah, and is traditionally taken from the ninth candle, the shamash.
Shabbat Candles
Traditional Shabbat candles are either wax or oil candles, and may be used to light the Hanukkah menorah. Each of the two candles used to light the Hanukkah menorah must be lit one at a time. The two Shabbat candles, with their slightly different looks, add to the festive presentation of the Hanukkah menorah.
How to Light the Candles on a Hanukkah Menorah?
The shamash, or helper candle, is placed in the center of the menorah. The other eight Hanukkah candles are placed in a straight line around the shamash. On the first night of Hanukkah, all eight candles are lit starting with the far right candle. On subsequent evenings, starting with the far left candle, one Hanukkah candle is lit, plus the shamash. The order that the candles are lit should follow the Hebrew calendar from right to left. The shamash candle is used to light the Hanukkah candles, and should not be used for any other purpose.
Since ancient times, the Hanukkah menorah has been an important symbol of the Jewish people’s quest for religious freedom. Lighting the candles of the Hanukkah menorah, and saying a blessing over it each night, calls forth the spirit of the festival and allows us to take part in this great rededication. The lighting of Hanukkah candles is a great gift to us, reminding us of all the struggles of those who have come before us and of the importance of keeping our faith alive and vibrant.
While the candles for Hanukkah have different shapes and are often made of wax, they all symbolize the importance of our traditions and of the menorah’s place in Jewish history. Whether we use traditional wax Hanukkah candles, Shabbat candles, or Yahrzeit candles, they remind us to keep the flame of faith alive in our lives.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.