The Hanukkah menorah is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. Lighting the menorah is a traditional ceremony meant to remind us of the Maccabees’ struggle for Jewish freedom. But when lighting the Hanukkah menorah, it’s important to know which direction we ought to light it in.
Edible oils such as olive or grape seed oils are traditionally used to light the menorah, instead of wax candles. These represent the oil that miraculously burned for eight days in the rededicated Temple in Jerusalem.
Where Do We Place the Menorah?
The menorah should be placed in a spot that is visible when lit, preferably in a doorway or window, so that it can be seen during all eight nights of Hanukkah. It should be placed at eye level, and on a stable surface.
Lighting the Menorah
The center candle, called the shamash, is usually taller than the rest and is used to light the other candles. On the first night of Hanukkah, we light the left candle first, followed by the shamash, and then the other candles from left to right. On each successive night, another candle is added, until all eight candles are lit together on the eighth night. We should be careful to light the candles in order, and never relight a candle which has been extinguished.
Blessings
Before we begin the process of lighting the menorah, we say three blessings in Hebrew. The blessings are:
- Blessed are You, Lord our God, king of the universe, who sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Hanukkah lights.
- Blessed are You, Lord our God, king of the universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in those days each and every day.
- Blessed are You, Lord our God, king of the universe, who has kept us in life and has preserved us and enabled us to reach this season.
Hanukkah is a joyful holiday celebrated each year by lighting the menorah. The proper direction to light the menorah is from left to right, with the shamash in the center and taller than the other candles. Keeping this tradition alive year after year helps us to remember the miracles of Chanukah and keep the spirit of the festival alive for generations to come.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.