As the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer, we approach the joyous holiday of Chanukah, a time when we commemorate the triumph of light over darkness and the resilience of the Jewish people. One of the central traditions of this festival is the kindling of the Chanukah candles, a practice that symbolizes the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the Holy Temple. If you’re new to this tradition or simply want to refresh your knowledge, allow us to guide you through the proper way to light the Chanukah candles, ensuring that your home is illuminated with the warmth and radiance of this beloved holiday.
Before you begin, gather your necessary materials: a Chanukah menorah, olive oil or beeswax candles, and a box of matches or a lighter. Choose a menorah with nine branches, representing the eight nights of Chanukah plus the shamash, the helper candle. Place the menorah on a sturdy surface where it will not be knocked over. Fill each of the eight candle holders with a small amount of oil, leaving about a quarter of an inch of space at the top. Then, insert the candles into the holders, ensuring that they are standing upright and secure. Now, you’re ready to embark on the candle-lighting ceremony.
How To Light The Chanukah Candles
To light the Chanukah candles, you will need the following:
- A Chanukah menorah (candelabra)
- 44 Chanukah candles (or olive oil and wicks)
- A lighter or matches
Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps:
- Place the Chanukah menorah in a safe location where it will not be knocked over.
- Insert the candles into the menorah, starting with the rightmost candle.
- Light the rightmost candle.
- Take the next candle and light it from the flame of the rightmost candle.
- Continue lighting the candles in this manner, moving from right to left.
- Once all the candles are lit, recite the following blessing:
ברוך אתה ה’ אלוהינו מלך העולם. אשר קדשנו במצותיו. וצונו להדליק נר של חנכה.
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Chanukah lights.
People Also Ask About How To Light The Chanukah Candles
Is it customary to light the Chanukah candles before or after sunset?
The Talmud (Shabbat 21b) states that the candles should be lit “at nightfall.” This means that the candles should be lit after sunset, but before nightfall. In practice, this means that the candles should be lit between 30 and 60 minutes after sunset.
Do you light a new candle each night of Chanukah?
Yes, a new candle is lit each night of Chanukah. On the first night, one candle is lit. On the second night, two candles are lit. And so on, until on the eighth night, eight candles are lit.
