Hanukkah is a joyous eight-day festival commemorating the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after it was defiled under the rule of the Syrians. It is celebrated for eight nights and is an important part of many Jewish families’ rituals. Hanukkah features the lighting of the menorah, eating Latkes and Sufganiyot, playing dreidel, and giving gifts to loved ones. But there is a certain etiquette to be observed, with some activities being prohibited during Hanukkah.
Hanukkah is a joyful occasion, and so overindulgence should be avoided. During the holiday, alcohol consumption is to be limited, and great care should be taken to ensure that the focus of Hanukkah remains religious and doesn’t move towards the realm of exuberant indulgence.Table of Contents
Buying With Money
The Mishnah states that the money used for the purchase of items for celebration of Hanukkah should not be of the same denomination as the coins which were used to desecrate paradise, that is, coins without an identifying sign of the Temple. The coins used to buy goods for Hanukkah should carry an identifying sign of the Temple. Traditional coins used for this purpose are zuzim.
Additionally, certain types of business transactions are not advised while celebrating Hanukkah. Purchasing items in “halal”, meaning not forbidden in the Torah, must be done without taking interest, as it is not permitted to incur monetary gain from fellow Jews.
Lighting the Menorah
The menorah should only be lit with olive oil and is only to be lit at night, although it can be lit earlier in the evening if the reason is one of respect. Additionally, the menorah should not be used as a source of light.
It’s important to note that the menorah should not be extinguished and relit at another time: once it’s lit, it should stay lit. Finally, when lighting the menorah it is recommended to recognize this special moment with prayers followed by the recital of the “al hanisim,” a special prayer that recounts the miracle of Chanukah.
Not Making Profane or Dull Use of the Menorah
The Talmud states that nothing should be done on Hanukkah that incorporates a worldly activity. Any use of the menorah that is not related to its religious purpose is disallowed and even blasphemous. This means that it is generally not permitted to use the menorah for utilitarian purposes.
Although it is tempting to decorate with a lit menorah, or even take it outdoors for a tour of the neighborhood, it is not permissible to display the menorah in public outside of a synagogue setting.
Conclusion
In sum, various activities are prohibited during Hanukkah, from buying items with money of a certain denomination, to preventing profane or dull use of the menorah in non-certain settings. As always, the goal of this festive holiday is to remember and honor the Maccabees’ great victory and the miracle of the 8 nights of Hanukkah lights.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.