The Menorah - A Chanukah (Hanukkah) Celebration of Lights

What is a Menorah? 

The menorah is most commonly known today as the candle holder or lamp with 9 branches that is lit in the Jewish tradition on the festival of Hanukah. Hanukah is on the 25th of the Hebrew month of Kislev, which usually falls sometime in December on the solar calendar. The basic design of the menorah is to have 8 branches of equal height and the 9th to be taller.  

This taller one is called the shamash which means helper in Hebrew. This purpose of this light is to “help” because the remaining 8 lights are not supposed to be used for any purpose except to admire their beauty.

Where does a menorah come from?

Menorahs traditionally only have 7 branches, and were used in the ancient Jewish temple in Jerusalem, which was the center of national and religious life. The Greek empire invaded and tried to destroy the temple, but after the Jews were able to come back and found inside online one jar of oil to use in the menorah. The oil should have been enough for one day but instead burned for 8 days, until they were able to make more. This event is commemorated with the festival of Chanukah and the additional lights on the menorah to represent all 8 days.

What does a menorah look like?

A menorah should follow some basic guidelines, but can take almost any shape or design. Traditionally, they have straight or curved branches of the same height, with the shamash in the middle or behind or on the end, and slightly higher. The original menorah was made of gold, but today common materials include silver and glass. Many artist use clays and ceramics to design ornate and beautiful pieces which do a fabulous job of spreading the joy of the miracle of Hanukah. Electric menorah can also be seen in many homes and windows with bulbs that light up for each day of Hanukah which also are a beautiful addition to the holiday.

How do you light a menorah?

The menorah should be lit in order from right to left. The first night the candle to the extreme right is lit. On the second night, the two candles on the extreme right are lit with the new candle going first. This continues until the last night all 8 candles are lit, plus the shamash. Many families have varying traditions for where and when to light but the most common includes the whole family gathering at sundown, outside, in the window, or a table at the entrance of the house. The head of the house pronounces a few blessings, then lights the candles, while the family sings traditional Hanukah songs together as admiring the candlelight.