Lighting the Hanukkah candles is one of the defining traditions of Hanukkah and is of significant importance to the celebration. While there is no right or wrong way to light the Hanukkah candles, there are some traditions and customs which are regularly followed. Whether you’re lighting the Hanukkah candles for the first time, or looking to brush up on traditions, this article will provide guidance on how to light the Hanukkah candles correctly.
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Traditions of Lighting The Hanukkah Menorah
The menorah or Hanukiah used for Hanukkah has nine candleholders. The Shamash candle is used to light the other candles and is usually higher or set apart from the others.
Lighting the Candles
Sight of the Hanukkah Menorah should be done in the following order; the Shamash candle should be lit first followed by the middle 3 candles. This will then be followed by the remaining 4 candles on the right side of the menorah, followed by the last 2 candles on the left side.When lit, the flames of the candles should be lining up and one above the other.
Reciting Blessings
When lighting the Hanukkah candles, blessings should be recited. For the first night, the blessing is:
- Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with your commandments and commanded us to kindle the Hanukkah lights.
For the remaining seven nights, the blessing is:
- Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has worked miracles for our ancestors in those days, in this time.
The blessings are then followed by singing the popular Hanukkah song “Ma’oz Tsur” (Rock of Ages) and/or reciting the Hanukkah prayer “Al Hanisim”.
Placement of The Menorah
The placement of the Hanukkah menorah is also of great importance. Traditionally, the Hanukkah menorah is placed by a window to allow all to witness the joy and beauty of the lighting of the candles during the holiday.
Lighting the Hanukkah candles is a joyous part of the celebration of Hanukkah. There is no unified way to light the Hanukkah candles, however, there are a number of customs and traditions which should be followed. Being mindful of the order of lighting, the correct blessings and the placement of the menorah will ensure a meaningful and memorable Hanukkah celebration for everyone.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.