What is the proper way to light a Hanukkah candle?
Lighting the Menorah on Hanukkah is the most important Hanukkah custom. Jews light Hanukkah candles to remember the miracle of the Maccabees’ victory and the miracle of the oil that burnt for eight days in the holy Temple. It is a mitzvah (commandment from God) that Jews “publicize the miracle” by lighting a Hanukkah Menorah each night during the eight days of Hanukkah. The menorah consists of eight candle holders in a row and separate candle holder for the “Shamash” – the candle that is used to light the other candles. The menorah is lit at sundown since Jewish holidays run from sundown to sundown. The only exception is Friday night when the menorah is lit prior to sundown to respect the Sabbath. On the first night, place one candle in the Menorah’s far right slot and also place a candle in the holder for the Shamash.
