The Jewish festival of Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days and nights, and is usually observed starting on Kislev 25, the 25th day of the month of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar. On the first night of Hanukkah, special Hanukkah prayers are said to commemorate the miracle of Hanukkah. In this article, we’ll explain which prayers are said on the first night of Hanukkah and what they mean.
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Lighting Of The Menorah On The First Night Of Hanukkah
On the first night of Hanukkah, the first candle of the Menorah (candelabrum) is lit after nightfall. In a synagogue, it is usually done publicly, in the presence of the entire congregation. At home, it is lit with specific prayers.
Blessings Before Lighting The Menorah
Before the Menorah is lit, three blessings are said:
- Blessing 1: “Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Hanukkah lights.”
- Blessing 2: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in those days, at this time.”
- Blessing 3: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has kept us alive, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this occasion.”
After saying these three blessings, the Hanukkah lights are lit.
Blessings After Lighting The First Candle Of The Menorah
After lighting the first candle of the Menorah, the following blessing is said:
- “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the Hanukkah light.”
In most Jewish communities, a special Hanukkah song is sung after the lighting of the Menorah, as well.
Reciting Hallel Prayer
On the first night of Hanukkah, after lighting the Menorah, the Hallel prayer is recited. This prayer is a part of the daily prayers, and is said on Jewish holidays and joyous occasions. It is composed of Psalms chapters 113 – 118.
The first night of Hanukkah is a joyous occasion emphasizing the miraculous survival of the Jewish people. Lighting the Menorah and reciting the special Hanukkah prayers and songs while doing so, is a custom meant to keep the memory of the miracle of Hanukkah alive.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.