Candles have a prominent place in Hanukkah, the annual Jewish Festival of Lights. But why do we light them, and what do the candles represent in Hanukkah? In this article, we’ll look at the significance of the candles, from their representation of a miracle to their relevance to everyday Jewish life.
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A Miracle of Light
Hanukkah revolves around one of the most celebrated and well-known miracles in Jewish history – the miracle of the oil. When Antiochus IV Epiphanes desecrated the Temple in Jerusalem in 165 BCE, there was not enough oil to keep the menorah burning for the eight nights of Hanukkah. But a small vessel of oil, enough for only one-day burning, lasted for all eight nights. To commemorate this famous miracle, one candle is lit each night of Hanukkah, with the addition of an extra candle being lit on each night.
A Symbol of Faith
The eight candles of Hanukkah have come to represent not just a miraculous event, but an ongoing faith in that miracle. When the Jewish people light the candles, they say prayers and recite blessings. Each night of Hanukkah, the flame of faith strengthened and restored by the miracle of the oil is re-ignited. Every time the flame is lit it is a reminder of the faith and admiration for the miracle that sustains the Jewish people.
The Significance of the Lights
Each night of Hanukkah, the addition of a new flame serves as a reminder of the miracle of oil as it grows the menorah from one candle to eight. The light of the candles unites the Jewish people as a reminder of their shared identity, culture, and values. More than just a commemoration of a historical event, the flame of Hanukkah is a reminder of the power of faith to prevail in any situation. The lights also demonstrate a key Jewish value: the importance of community. By celebrating the holiday together, the Jewish people uphold this tenet of faith.
The Evocative Power of Candlelight
Candlelight is evocative of so many powerful themes—from the wonder of a miracle to the strength of faith and the power of community. The Jewish people light the candles in hope and faith, that they and their children will be lucky enough to witness many more Hanukkah miracles. The beauty and symbolism of the candles of Hanukkah will continue to bring light to Jewish people everywhere.
From its representation of a miraculous event to its proximity to everyday faith, the candles of Hanukkah stand for much more than a physical flame. They unite the Jewish people in hope and faith, connecting them to the rich tradition and values of the faith. Each night the lights of Hanukkah will be added, reminding us of the power of faith and the miracle of the oil.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.