The Hanukkah candle, renowned for blessing and lighting the holiday of Hanukkah, is a type of candle known as a Hanukkiah. A Hanukkiah, also known as a Chanukkiah or Chanukiah, is a nine-branched candelabrum lit during the festival of Hanukkah. The Hanukkah candle is a powerful symbol of both religious and cultural significance.
The History of The Hanukkah Candle
The eight-day Hanukkah festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the liberation of Jerusalem and the rededication of the second temple by Judas Maccabee in the second century B.C. The Talmud, or the Jewish bible, states that only a one-day supply of oil was available but miraculously the oil lasted for eight days, long enough to obtain a fresh supply of oil.
In celebration of that miracle, a special nine-branched menorah is lit every night with a single flame increased by one until all eight candles have been lit. This menorah is also known by its Hebrew name, Hanukkiah.
Hanukkiah Structure
The Hanukkiah is different from the other menorahs because of its nine branches. This ninth branch is an extra candle, or shamash, which is used to light the other eight candles. This shamash candle is traditionally placed above or below the other eight branches. It is also usually the tallest candle of the nine.
The Hanukkah candles are placed from right to left. On the first night, one candle is lit, then two candles are lit on the second night, three candles for the third night and so on. On the last night, all eight candles are lit and the two highest branches are are put together as one.
Significance
The Hanukkah flame is believed to be a symbol of freedom and joy, and the festival celebrates this story with the lighting of the Hanukkah candle at the start of each night. It is a time for gathering of family and friends and remembering the valiant struggles of the past. Each family’s displays of joy, whether Hanukkah menorahs in the window or sufganiyot at the table, help to share the Festival of Lights with the whole community.
The Hanukkah candle, known as the Hanukkiah, is a strong symbol that represents not only religious but also cultural significance. Its nine branches are used to signify the eight days the oil miraculously lasted in the temple, and the highest candle is called the shamash, symbolizing hope and light. During the festival, families light the candles every night as a reminder of the events that occurred centuries ago, to cherish the moments of gathering with friends and family, and to keep the Festival of Lights alive.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.