Introduction:
Hanukkah is an important holiday celebrated by Jews all over the world, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. It is observed for eight days, beginning on the 25th day of Kislev, which usually falls in late November or December. One of the most recognizable symbols of Hanukkah is the lighting of the menorah, a candelabrum with nine branches. Each night of Hanukkah, one additional candle is lit until all eight candles are lit on the final night.
The purpose of this article is to explore the meaning and tradition behind lighting Hanukkah candles. We will discuss how many candles are lit each night, the symbolism behind the ritual, and provide a step-by-step guide to lighting the candles.
How Many Candles are Lit Each Night During Hanukkah?
On the first night of Hanukkah, one candle is lit, known as the shamash or helper candle. This candle is used to light the other candles throughout the holiday. On the second night, two candles are lit, one to the right and one to the left of the shamash. This process continues for each of the following nights, with one additional candle being lit each night until all eight candles are lit on the last night.
The significance of adding an extra candle each night is to symbolize the miracle of Hanukkah when only enough oil was found to keep the temple’s menorah lit for one night. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight nights, so it is customary to add one additional candle each night to recall this miracle.
Exploring the Symbolism Behind Lighting Hanukkah Candles
The tradition of lighting the menorah dates back to the time of the Maccabees, when Judah Maccabee and his followers reclaimed the Temple in Jerusalem from the Syrian-Greeks. To commemorate their victory, they lit the menorah, using olive oil that miraculously lasted eight days. This act of lighting the menorah has been repeated ever since.
The eight lights of the menorah have come to represent many different things. The Talmud explains that the lights represent the eight days of Hanukkah, while others believe the lights represent God’s presence in our lives. Some interpret the lights to represent the eight miracles that occurred during the Maccabean revolt. Others view the lights as a reminder of the importance of freedom and justice.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lighting Hanukkah Candles
Lighting the Hanukkah candles is a meaningful tradition that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Here is a step-by-step guide to help make the ritual of lighting the Hanukkah candles special and memorable:
Supplies Needed: Hanukkah candles, menorah, matches or lighter.
Procedure for Lighting Candles: Place the Hanukkah candles into the menorah, starting with one candle on the far right. Light the shamash (helper) candle, then use it to light the candle on the far right. Move from right to left, adding an additional candle each night. Recite the blessing for lighting the candles.
Blessing to Be Said: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Hanukkah lights.”
Conclusion
Lighting the Hanukkah candles is an important part of the Hanukkah tradition. Each night of Hanukkah, one additional candle is lit until all eight candles are lit on the last night. The lights of the menorah have come to represent many different things, such as the eight days of Hanukkah, God’s presence, and the importance of freedom and justice. By understanding the meaning behind the ritual of lighting the Hanukkah candles, we can truly appreciate its beauty and significance.
