What is a menorah, and how does it work?
Most menorahs are candelabras with seven candles. A menorah used at Hanukkah has eight candles and is called a Hanukkiah (hon-uh-KEE-ah). Eight candles celebrate the eight days the lamp burned. Usually a ninth is included as a “servant” candle, from which the others are lighted. How is it used? The menorah is used at temple and at home, where prayers are said and each night another candle is lighted, according to Sue Koletsky, director of Temple-Tifereth Israel’s temple museum. Candles are inserted from right to left, one more each day. They are lighted left to right and burn each night until done. Often, children have their own Hanukkiah. How important are gifts? They were not part of the original holiday, Block said. “And some of us still argue over its emphasis. Both Christmas and Hanukkah have been corrupted somewhat by commercialism.” What foods are important on this holiday? Latkes, doughnuts (in Israel), anything cooked in oil. Do you spell it Hanukkah or Chanukah? Both are acce
