Hanukkah is a Jewish tradition celebrated around the world to joyfully remember the dedication of the Temple of Jerusalem, when oil miraculously burned for 8 days. Lighting the menorah―a candelabrum with nine branches―is a fundamental aspect of the celebration. It is important to light the menorah properly, starting with the shamash (the servant) candle, which is lit to light the other candles. However, there is some debate over whether Hanukkah candles should be lit from left to right, or from right to left.
Table of Contents
Overview
When lighting the nine candles of the menorah, the candles should start with the Shamash (servant) candle, which is the candle used to light the other candles—this is often the highest candle or in the center of the menorah. The other candles should be lit from left to right, or from right to left depending on personal preference.
Left to Right for Ashkenazi Judaism
Most Ashkenazi Jews, originating from Germany, will light Hanukkah candles from left to right each night. Lighting the menorah from left to right symbolizes honoring the mitzvah of fulfilling the religious commandment to light the menorah. Lighting the menorah in this fashion from left to right is also believed to represent the progression in the freedom of the Jewish people from slavery to liberation.
Right to Left for Sepharadi Judaism
Sepharadi Jews, originating from Spain, will light Hanukkah candles from right to left. Lighting the menorah from right to left is a symbol of the miracles that were intrinsic to the Hanukkah story—the oil lasting for 8 days and nights. When beginning from the right, it is seen as a celebration of the right hand of G-d being the one that blessed the Jewish people for eight days. This custom also symbolizes traveling from strength to strength.
Choosing a Direction of Lighting for Yourself
Ultimately, choosing to light the menorah from right to left or left to right is left to personal preference. Some people will choose one way of lighting the candles, while others will alternate. Whatever your choice, remember that the candles should be lit each night in a happy, joyous atmosphere, honoring the hand of G-d in the miracle of Hanukkah and in our lives.
- Conclusion: Hanukkah candles should start with the Shamash candle and proceed either from left to right or from right to left, depending on personal preference. Lighting the candles should be a joyful event, celebrating the Hanukkah miracle.
At its core, Hanukkah is a celebration of the miracle that oil lit for 8 days and nights, and of the hand of G-d that blessed the Jewish people. Lighting the candles is an act of joyful remembrance and devotion, no matter which direction is chosen. One direction may be more traditional or meaningful to you, or you may choose to alternate or switch directions each night; whatever direction you choose, it should be done with joy in order to honor the beauty and wonder of the Hanukkah miracle.
Related Products:
- What Direction Are Hanukkah Candles Lit?
- What Order Are Hanukkah Candles Lit?
- Which Way Are Hanukkah Candles Lit?
- Hanukkah Candles Which Direction?
- How Are The Hanukkah Candles Lit?
- How Many Candles Are Lit On The First Night Of Hanukkah?
- In What Order Are Hanukkah Candles Lit?
- What Are The Candles That Are Lit During Hanukkah Called?
- Which Direction Hanukkah Candles?
- During Hanukkah How Many Days Are The Candles Lit?
- How Are The Candles Lit For Hanukkah?
- How Many Candles Are Lit For Hanukkah?
- In What Order Are The Hanukkah Candles Lit?
- When Are Hanukkah Candles Lit?
- How Are Hanukkah Candles Lit?
Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.