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seven sons were tortured and executed after refusing to abide by the Greek/Syrian policy. Hannah herself committed suicide after their death, hence the eight candles of the Hanukkiah.

For each night of Hanukkah an additional menorah candle is lit to represent the eight days that the oil lasted for in the Ancient Temple. The candles are placed in the holders from right to left but lit from left to right. On Friday, they should be lit slightly earlier to account for Shabbat but the menorah is usually lit somewhere close to nightfall. It is custom to have all the family there when lighting the Hanukkiah so some households may kindle the lights a little later.

The main purpose of the Hanukkiah is to make the miracle publicly known. For this reason, it should always be placed either just outside the front door or by a window in clear public view if the latter is not possible. Proclaiming the miracle and how the light of the Maccabees overcame the darkness of the Greek/Syrians is interpreted through the menorah. Blessings are said before and during the menorah lighting to remind us of why we are celebrating Hanukkah. Firstly, before kindling the lights on the first night, the following is recited,

"Blessed are you, Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with his commandments and commanded us to kindle the lights of Hanukkah"

Once recited, the Shamash should be lit and used to light the candle on the far right of the menorah. As this is done, the following blessing is recited:

"Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors, at this season, in days past."

The Hanukkiah is a huge part of Hanukkah and represents everything to do with the Festival of Lights. It remembers the miracle in the Ancient Temple, the victory of light over dark and how faith conquered even the strongest of foes. Although Hanukkah is a festival of celebration, it is import to remember what it is about and why we light the menorah, letting the dedication shown by the Maccabees live on.

Learn more about this author, Marc Steel.
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