The lighting of the Menorah is the integral mitzvah of Hanukkah, according to Judaic.com. The menorah is lit as a memorial to the Jewish people who rebelled against their enemies and fought to retake the Holy Temple. To commemorate this time, the Jewish rabbis made a holiday lasting eight days. The Menorah has eight branches to signify the eight days it took to restore the Holy Temple after the enemy had defiled it, according to Judaic.com. One branch of the Menorah is lit every night of the holiday. Lighting the Menorah is a special celebration full of tradition. Including children in this ritual can ensure they understand the importance of the holiday.
Step 1
Place the Menorah in a safe place away from flammable items but also in an easy-to-reach location for your children. Put the candles in place. The tallest candle should be the Shamash, or the candle used to light the other eight candles. According to Chabad.org, all eight candles should be in a perfect line and be the same height.
Step 2
Begin the lighting of the Menorah on the 24th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev. At sunset on the first night, recite three blessings prior to lighting the first candle. After the three blessings are said, light the Shamash and use it to light the far right candle.
Step 3
Leave the candles to burn for about 45 minutes each night. While lighting the candles, join with your family and recite or sing "HaNerot Halalu." Other traditional Hanukkah hymns should be sung as well, according to Chabad.org.
Step 4
Light the Shamash on every night of Hanukkah. Use it to light the next candle in the Menorah. This would be the candle on the left of the candle lit the previous night. Moving from left to right, light the candles from the previous nights.
Tips and Warnings
- Place foil or some other protective cover below the Menorah to prevent drips or spills of wax. Allow kids to take turns each night lighting the candles. Use the eight days of repetition of the hymns and blessings as a way to help your children memorize the traditions of Hanukkah.
- Do not leave kids unattended with the Menorah as it can be a fire hazard.
Things You'll Need
- Hanukkah Menorah
- Nine candles including the Shamash
- Matches
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