Hanukkah, or the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday celebrated by Jews all over the world. The celebrations usually involve the traditional lighting of the Hanukkah candles. But what are the Hanukkah candles called?
Hanukkah candles, which are also referred to as Chanukah or Chanukkah candles, are known as shamash in Hebrew. Each Hanukkah candle is made of wax, and all of them are held in a special Hanukkah menorah. The shamash is put in the center of the Hanukkah menorah, and it is used for kindling the other eight Hanukkah candles.Table of Contents
Symbolism Behind Hanukkah Candles
The shamash candle used to light the other Hanukkah candles represents the concept of ‘light prevailing over darkness’. The symbolic meaning behind the shamash is very powerful, as it reminds us of the victory of a small group of Jews against their Greek-Syrian oppressors.
The Religious Significance of the Shamash Candle
The shamash is used as a reminder of the miracle of Hanukkah, which took place many centuries ago. According to Jewish tradition, a single jar of oil lit up for eight days, and that’s why the Hanukkah celebrations last for eight days. During these days, the shamash candle is lit each evening, and it is used to light the other eight candles of the Menorah.
Lighting Up The Hanukkah Candles
On the first night of Hanukkah, one candle is lit, which is followed by two candles on the second night, three candles on the third night and so on until the final night when all eight candles are lit. The shamash is lit first and then used to light the other candles.
Other Uses of the Shamash Candle
Apart from kindling the other eight Hanukkah candles, the shamash is also used to perform other religious duties on Hanukkah. For instance, blessings like ‘blessed are You…Who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the light of Hanukkah’ are recited while the shamash candle is lit.
Shamash is the special candle used during the Hanukkah celebrations. It signifies light prevailing over darkness and is a reminder of the miracle of Hanukkah. Lighting up the shamash is the first step in lighting up the Hanukkah candles every evening. The shamash is also used to recite prayers and blessings during the festivities. The shamash is an integral part of the Hanukkah celebrations, and its meaning is understood and appreciated by all members of the Jewish community.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.