The joyous festival of Hanukkah is set to begin at sundown on December 14, 2025, and continues until December 22, 2025. This eight-day celebration, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the victory of Jewish rebels over the armies of Syria in 165 B.C.E. and the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. As many prepare for this important holiday, understanding the correct way to light the menorah is essential.
Hanukkah’s dates shift annually due to its adherence to the Hebrew calendar, a lunisolar system that combines both lunar and solar cycles. In contrast to the Gregorian calendar, which most Western holidays follow, Hanukkah always begins on the 25th of Kislev. This year, families and friends will gather to celebrate with traditional songs, blessings, stories, games, and special foods.
Central to the celebration is the menorah, a candelabra designed for the holiday. While a traditional menorah has seven branches, the Hanukkah menorah, or chanukiyah, features nine branches: eight for each night of Hanukkah and one shamash, or helper candle. According to Rabbi Rachel Barenblat, the shamash is lit first and used to ignite the other candles.
Lighting the menorah typically takes place just after sunset, except on Friday nights when it should be lit before sundown. Each night, an additional candle is added, resulting in a total of eight candles by the final night. The candles should ideally burn for at least 30 minutes, although many choose to let them burn until extinguished naturally.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lighting the Menorah
To properly light the menorah, follow these steps:
1. **Placement**: Position the menorah on a table near a window, ideally to the left side of the door. The shamash is placed in the center.
2. **Candle Arrangement**: Begin placing the candles from right to left. On the first night, place one candle on the far right. For the second night, add another candle immediately to the left of the first, and so forth for each subsequent night.
3. **Lighting the Candles**: Use matches or a lighter to ignite the shamash candle first. After reciting the blessings, use the shamash to light the other candles from left to right, meaning the newest candle is lit first.
4. **Safety Considerations**: Keep the lit menorah within sight and do not move it while the candles are burning. If a flame goes out, it is permissible to relight it.
As families gather for this meaningful celebration, the act of lighting the menorah serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and faith. With the proper preparations and understanding, participants can fully engage in the spirit of Hanukkah.
This guide aims to ensure that individuals and families observe the holiday with respect and joy, enhancing the communal and spiritual experience that defines Hanukkah.
