How to Light Hanukkah Candles: A Fast-Track Guide to Celebrating Hanukkah with Light

Lighting Hanukkah candles is a cherished tradition that commemorates the miracle of oil during the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. This ritual, celebrated over eight nights, involves specific steps, blessings, and a sense of togetherness with family and community. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to light Hanukkah candles:

1. Set Up the Menorah: Place your menorah in a safe, visible location, often by a window. Insert candles from right to left, starting with one on the first night and adding one each subsequent night (plus the "shamash" helper candle in its elevated spot each night).
2. Light the Shamash: Always use the central or elevated shamash candle to light the other candles. The shamash is lit first and used to kindle the other candles.
3. Blessings: Before lighting the candles, recite the appropriate blessings. There are two blessings for nights 2–8 and an additional ‘Shehecheyanu’ blessing on the first night.
4. Blessing 1: "Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to light the Hanukkah candle."
5. Blessing 2: "Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in those days at this time."
6. Blessing 3 (First night only): "Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has kept us alive, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this season."
7. Light the Candles: Using the shamash, light the newest candle first (on the left), then move right. Let the candles burn out naturally; do not extinguish them.
8. Enjoy the Light: Spend time with your family, sing traditional songs, play dreidel, and reflect on the meaning of Hanukkah while the candles burn.

As a designer, I always recommend thinking intentionally about your setup. Positioning your menorah near reflective surfaces or stylish backdrops can enhance both the ambiance and the sense of tradition. Thoughtful placement isn’t just about aesthetics—it maximizes the impact and visibility of this meaningful ritual. If you’re redesigning your living space for the holidays, you might want to explore immersive features in a DIY room decor platform to preview how your family traditions fit into your home’s layout.

Tips 1:

Light the candles after nightfall, but if possible, consult your local community’s tradition regarding lighting time. Keep children involved with supervision, and consider fire safety, especially in busy households.

FAQ

Q: What order do I place and light the Hanukkah candles?

A: Place candles from right to left but light them from left to right, using the shamash each night.

Q: Are there specific prayers for lighting Hanukkah candles?

A: Yes, there are traditional blessings to recite before lighting. The Shehecheyanu is included on the first night only.

Q: How long should the Hanukkah candles burn?

A: They should burn for at least 30 minutes after nightfall and should be left to extinguish on their own.

Q: Where should I display my menorah?

A: Ideally, place it in a window or location where the lights are visible to the outside, symbolizing the miracle.

Q: Can I use electric menorahs?

A: While some use electric displays for decoration, traditional practice calls for oil or wax candles to fulfill the mitzvah.