Hanukkah is a significant holiday for the Jewish people around the world. During this holiday we come together to celebrate a miracle that occurred over two thousand years ago. As part of the celebration, we recite many prayers that commemorate this event. But what do these prayers mean?
The Hanukkah prayers are divided into two types: blessings and remembrances. The blessings are said at the start of the holiday and during the lighting of the menorah and serve to remember and thank God for his miracles. The remembrances are said every day during the holiday and help us recall the events of Hanukkah.
Table of Contents
The Blessings
Blessing for Light
This blessing is said before lighting the menorah and emphasizes the importance of light and its connection to goodness, holiness and purity. The prayer declares:
- Blessed are You, Lord our God, king of the universe, who sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Chanukah light.
Blessing for Sanctification
This blessing is said after the candles have been lit and thanks God for allowing us to celebrate this special holiday. It declares:
- Blessed are You, Lord our God, king of the universe, who kept us alive, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this season.
The Remembrances
The remembrances are said every day of Hanukkah before lighting the candles. These prayers remind us of the historical events of Hanukkah and serve as a spiritual reminder of our faith. The remembrances include:
- Maoz Tzur: This prayer is said on the first night of Hanukkah and remembers the battles that took place and our deliverance. The prayer declares: “Rock of Ages, redeem Israel, Your people, blessed by Your name”
- Al HaNissim: This prayer is said on all nights of Hanukkah and remembers the military and miraculous victories of the Maccabees. The prayer declares: “For the miracles, for the redemption, for the mighty deeds, for the saving acts..”
The Hanukkah prayers serve to remind us of the miracle of Hanukkah and to thank God for allowing us to celebrate this special holiday. Through these prayers, we can further deepen our understanding of this miracle and our eternal connection to it.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.