How To Light Hannukah Candles

# How To Light Hanukkah Candles

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a significant Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt. One of the central rituals of Hanukkah is the lighting of the Hanukkah menorah, or Hanukkiah. This article will guide you through the steps of lighting Hanukkah candles, the significance behind the ritual, and provide visual aids to enhance your understanding.

## The Significance of Hanukkah Candles

The lighting of Hanukkah candles is a symbolic act that represents the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days in the Temple. According to tradition, when the Maccabees reclaimed the Temple, they found only enough pure oil to light the menorah for one day. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days, which was enough time to prepare a new supply of pure oil.

## Materials Needed

Before you begin, ensure you have the following items:

1. **Hanukkiah**: A nine-branched menorah used specifically for Hanukkah.
2. **Candles**: 44 candles in total (one for each night, plus the shamash).
3. **Shamash**: The helper candle used to light the other candles.
4. **Matches or a Lighter**: To light the candles.

## Step-by-Step Guide to Lighting Hanukkah Candles

### Step 1: Set Up the Hanukkiah

Place the Hanukkiah in a prominent location, preferably near a window, so that it can be seen by others. This practice, known as *Pirsumei Nisa* (publicizing the miracle), is an essential part of the ritual.


### Step 2: Insert the Candles

Starting from the right side of the Hanukkiah, insert the appropriate number of candles for the night. On the first night, place one candle in the far-right holder. On the second night, add a second candle to the left of the first, and so on, until all eight candles are used on the final night.


### Step 3: Place the Shamash

The shamash, or helper candle, is placed in the center or elevated position on the Hanukkiah. This candle is used to light the other candles and should be lit first.


### Step 4: Light the Shamash

Using a match or lighter, light the shamash. Recite the following blessings before lighting the Hanukkah candles:

1. **Blessing for Lighting the Candles**:
  *Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, asher kid'shanu b'mitzvotav v'tzivanu l'hadlik ner shel Hanukkah.*
  (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.)

2. **Blessing for the Miracle**:
  *Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, she-asah nisim la'avoteinu ba'yamim ha'heim ba'z'man ha'zeh.*
  (Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our forefathers in those days, at this time.)


### Step 5: Light the Hanukkah Candles

Using the shamash, light the Hanukkah candles from left to right. This means you will light the newest candle first and proceed to the older ones.


### Step 6: Sing Hanerot Halalu

After lighting the candles, it is customary to sing *Hanerot Halalu*, a hymn that describes the purpose of the Hanukkah lights.


### Step 7: Enjoy the Light

Allow the candles to burn for at least 30 minutes. During this time, it is customary to enjoy the light, reflect on the miracle of Hanukkah, and spend time with family.


## Video Tutorial

For a more detailed visual guide, watch the following video on how to light Hanukkah candles:

[](https://example.com/hanukkah-video)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### 1. **Why do we light Hanukkah candles?**

We light Hanukkah candles to commemorate the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days in the Temple.

### 2. **How many candles are lit each night of Hanukkah?**

One additional candle is lit each night, starting with one on the first night and ending with eight on the final night.

### 3. **What is the purpose of the shamash?**

The shamash is the helper candle used to light the other candles. It is placed in a separate holder to distinguish it from the Hanukkah candles.

### 4. **Can I use electric lights instead of candles?**

While electric lights are not traditionally used, they can be used in situations where real candles are not practical, such as in hospitals or public displays.

### 5. **What should I do if I forget to light the candles one night?**

If you forget to light the candles on a particular night, you can light them the following night with the appropriate number of candles.

## Conclusion

Lighting Hanukkah candles is a beautiful and meaningful tradition that brings families together and reminds us of the miracles of the past. By following these steps, you can properly observe this important ritual and share in the joy of Hanukkah.