Lighting Hanukkah Candles: A Guide: 1 Minute to Perfecting Your Hanukkah Candle Lighting Ritual

Lighting Hanukkah candles is one of the most enduring and meaningful traditions in Jewish culture. Each night of the eight-day festival, families gather to commemorate the miracle of the oil by kindling lights on a menorah. Whether you’re observing for the first time or looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide will walk you through the essentials of Hanukkah candle lighting and provide practical tips to enhance your celebration.

Tips 1:

Choosing the right menorah and candles isn’t just about tradition—it’s also an opportunity to express your style and elevate your home’s ambiance. As a designer, I recommend placing your menorah in a space where its beauty and significance can shine. An accent table in your living room, near a window, provides a focal point for both family and guests. If you’re considering a holiday tabletop arrangement with seasonal decor or creating a designated display area, you can use digital tools like a home designer platform to plan the optimal layout before bringing your vision to life.

FAQ

Q: When do you light Hanukkah candles?

A: Candles are typically lit after sundown each night of Hanukkah, except on Fridays, when they're lit before sunset to avoid lighting on Shabbat.

Q: In what order do you place and light the candles?

A: Place candles from right to left on the menorah, but light them from left to right, starting with the newest candle each night.

Q: What blessings are said when lighting the candles?

A: Two blessings are typically said each night (plus a third Shehecheyanu on the first night). These blessings praise God for the commandments and the miracles of Hanukkah.

Q: Does the menorah have to be in a specific location?

A: Traditionally, the menorah is placed in a window or doorway, but anywhere visible to others is appropriate as the purpose is to publicize the miracle.

Q: Can electric menorahs be used?

A: Electric menorahs are common for display, but for the ritual lighting, actual candles or oil lamps should be used to fulfill the mitzvah.