Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that is celebrated each year in December to commemorate the victory of the Maccabees over the Greeks and the miracle of the oil lighting for 8 nights. Hanukkah is a time of gifts, fun, and festivities that make it a very special holiday. One of the unique traditions of Hanukkah is that one candle is lit on the menorah, a special Hanukkah lamp, each evening of the holiday. But which Hanukkah candle is lit first?
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The Hanukkah Menorah
The Hanukkah Menorah is a special lamp that holds nine candles: one candle for each night of the holiday plus a “shamash” candle, which is used to light the other eight. The menorah is ceremonially lit each night of the holiday with one more candle being added each evening.
Which Hanukkah Candle Is Lit First?
The first candle on the menorah is always the shamash candle that is placed in a different holder, usually at the center or in the highest position of the other eight candles. Its job is to light the other eight candles as they are added each evening. According to the Jewish code of law, the shamash acts as the “servant” candle, lighting the other candles and also allowing for the lighting of the menorah to be considered a single ritual instead of nine separate ones.
The next candle is always placed to the far right of the menorah. This is the candle that is lit first each evening with the shamash candle. From there, a candle is added from right to left to the menorah for each night of Hanukkah, with the last or eighth candle being added on the far left.
The Significance of Lighting from Right to Left
Lighting the menorah from right to left is symbolically significant. In Jewish culture, the right side of a person or object is said to symbolize strength and importance, while the left side suggests humility and compassion. By lighting the menorah from right to left, we move from light to darkness, and from strength to humility. This practice also reminds us to keep our spirits strong and our hearts humble even in the toughest of times.
How to Light the Hanukkah Menorah
Lighting the menorah is a meaningful ritual that is shared by Jewish people around the world. To properly light the menorah, you will need a wick, oil, matches, and the menorah. First, bless the menorah, saying the traditional Hebrew prayer. Then fill each cup of the menorah with enough oil to completely cover the wick. Light the shamash candle and go in a counterclockwise direction, lighting the other eight candles. Say the traditional blessing again each night you light the menorah. Then it’s time to join in some of the traditional activities such as playing dreidel and exchanging Hanukkah gifts.
As you can see, the shamash candle is lit first each evening of Hanukkah, and candles are added to the menorah in a counterclockwise direction. Lighting the menorah is both beautiful and meaningful ritual that allows us to practice gratitude and humility for eight nights. From gifts and treats to family and friends, we can use this special holiday to come together in appreciation of the Hanukkah story and its many blessings.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.