Hanukkah Candles

Lighting Hanukkah (also spelled Chanukah) candles is the most important Hanukkah custom. Jews light Hanukkah candles to remember their fight for religious freedom and the victory of the Maccabees. They also remember the miracle of the oil that burnt for eight days in The Temple (when there was only enough for one). It is a mitzvah (Commandment from G-d) that Jews "publicize the miracle" by lighting a Hanukkah menorah (also called a chanukiah) each night during the eight days of Hanukkah.

Hanukkah candles are lit each night, with increasing numbers of candles as the days of Hanukkah progress. The menorah candles should preferably be lit immediately at nightfall. However, the Hanukkah candles can be lit late into the night, if necessary. It is preferrable to light candles with the entire family. The menorah should remain lit for at least 30 minutes after nightfall. On Friday afternoon, the menorah should be lit before sundown, to honor Shabbat.

How To Light Hanukkah Candles

On the first night, place one candle in the menorah's far right candle holder (as you face the menorah). Another candle is placed for the shamash (helper candle) in the candle holder that is often in the middle, but is usually somehow distinguished from the rest of the candle holders. Say the blessing below and then light the menorah candle using the Shamash candle.

Borukh Ato Adoynoy Eloyheynu Melekh Ho-oylom Asher Kiddeshonu Be-mitsvoysov Ve-tsivonu Lehadlik Neyr Shel khanuko.
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us by His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the lights of Hanukkah.