Hanukkah is a joyous Jewish holiday that is celebrated for 8 days with lots of fun and food. Part of the celebration includes the lighting of the eight-day candles, with the first candle lit on the first day of the celebration. It is the Hanukkah candle that is the largest focal point of the celebration. So, many wonder, what is a Hanukkah candle called?
A Hanukkah candle is known by several names, most commonly the “Hanukkiah” (or “hanukiah”). It is also known as the Chanukkiah or Chanukiah, depending on region. No matter what it is called, the candle symbolizes one of the miracles of the Festival of Lights, in which the oil burning in the lamp for eight days with only one day’s worth of oil.
What is a Hanukkah Candle?
A Hanukkah candle is a religious candle that was designed to commemorate the lighting of the Temple of Jerusalem and the miracle of the sealed oil. This candle has eight wicks representing the eight days that the oil miraculously lasted, and it is used to light other Hanukkah candles that burn for eight days.
How Does a Hanukkah Candle Work?
Each night of Hanukkah, a new candle is lit and placed in the Hanukkiah. On the first night, the first candle is lit. On the second night, the first plus the second candle are lit. This pattern is continued until all eight candles have been lit, one on each night.
The Hanukkah candles and their wicks are traditionally made of beeswax and stand one and a half to two inches tall. This is because the number of wicks and length of the wicks affects how long the Hanukkah candles will last, and the candles should last for at least eight days.
Other Uses for a Hanukkah Candle
The Hanukkah candle is not just for decoration. The on-going tradition of lighting a candle or candles each night of Hanukkah can be quite meaningful. Some worshippers may recite a prayer or recite a verse from the Torah. Or the candle may simply be appreciated as a sign of light in a dark world. Buddhists may meditate on the flame, yogis may practice pranayama and other breath practices, as the flame flickers. In fact, it is said that the light of the Hanukkah candles will help to bring inner peace and joy throughout the holiday.
In summary, the Hanukkah candle is more than just a symbol of the miracle of light. It is an act of recognizing and celebrating the divine through the light of prayer and contemplation. Whether you opt to call it a Hannukah Candle, a Chanukkiah, or a Hanukkiah, you are recognizing that same eternal flame of divine spark in each of us.
Whether you are celebrating Hanukkah for religious reasons or just for the joy of gathering loved ones, lighting the Hanukkah candle is an important part of the celebration. Choose Hanukkah candles that will last for at least eight days, and begin the season with a beautiful, meaningful symbol of light.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.