Chanukah Prayer Guide: Candle Lighting and Blessings

Chanukah ('dedication') commemorates two miracles: the military victory of the Maccabees over the Greek-Syrian army in 165 BCE, and the miracle of the oil - when one day's worth of pure oil burned for eight days in the rededicated Temple. The holiday celebrates religious freedom and the triumph of light over darkness, spirituality over materialism.

The Chanukah menorah (chanukiah) has nine branches - eight for the Chanukah lights plus the shamash (helper candle). Place candles from right to left, adding one each night. The shamash goes in the elevated or separate holder. Position the menorah where it can be seen, traditionally in a window or doorway. Use candles or oil that will burn for at least 30 minutes after nightfall.

Before lighting, recite the blessings: 1) 'L'hadlik ner shel Chanukah' - 'to kindle the Chanukah light.' 2) 'She'asah nissim la'avoteinu' - 'Who performed miracles for our ancestors.' 3) 'Shehecheyanu' - thanking God for bringing us to this time (first night only). After reciting the blessings, light the shamash, then use it to light the other candles from left to right (newest first).

Night 1: One candle on the far right. Night 2: Two candles, light the new (left) one first. Continue this pattern - always add to the left, light from left to right. By night 8, all eight candles plus the shamash are lit. Light after nightfall (some light at sunset on Friday before Shabbat candles). The candles should burn for at least 30 minutes.

After lighting, it's customary to sing 'Maoz Tzur' (Rock of Ages), a 13th-century hymn recounting God's salvation throughout Jewish history. Other popular songs include 'Chanukah Oh Chanukah,' 'Sevivon,' and 'Mi Yimalel.' Sitting by the candles while they burn, singing and spending time with family, fulfills the spirit of 'publicizing the miracle' (pirsumei nisa).

During Chanukah, 'Al HaNissim' (For the Miracles) is added to the Amidah and Birkat Hamazon, recounting the Chanukah story. Full Hallel (Psalms 113-118) is recited each morning of Chanukah - one of only times full Hallel is said for eight consecutive days. There is no fasting or eulogies during Chanukah. Work is permitted, though some refrain while the candles burn.