by Nan C Avery

Created on: November 22, 2009

Everyone knows about Hanukkah. The lighted menorah in windows looks festive. On*e wonders about the meaning of the lighted menorah. It is a celebration of Jerusalem's rededication of the defiled Temple. The menorah is a symbol in all Jewish religious ceremonies and celebrations. The Festival of Lights is a celebration of the miracle of oil that should have lasted one day but gave the Jews eight days of light.

The candles are a vital part of this celebration. Lighting them, using the traditions of the Jews, will add value to this joyous occasion.

*The most indispensable item is the menorah. You put eight candles of the same size and one larger or different candle that will be the Shamash. The Shamash is the only candle that should be used for utilitarian purposes. It is disrespectful to use any of the Hanukkah candles for practical purposes (lighting a cigarette, for light, or lighting the fireplace). You can buy one or make one.

*As the first stars light the sky, on 24th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, you will light you first candle on the menorah. (This year Hanukkah starts December 11.) A critical aspect of this procedure is that everyone in the household must be at hand to light the candle. It can be lit later if someone comes home after sunset. If someone is missing then the candle cannot be lit, it will remain unlit for the duration of Hanukkah time. This first lighting has three blessings: Blessing one: "Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us by His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the lights of Hanukkah."

(The blessings are in Hebrew.) Blessing two: "Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who wrought miracles for our fathers in days of old, at this season." Blessing three: This blessing occurs on the first night only (the other two blessings will always be said every night of Chanukah) "Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has kept us alive, and has preserved us, and enabled us to reach this time." The first two blessings are for the remaining days, along with songs and hymns.

The symbolism is not only the candle each night but the recognition of the miracle that occurred. As you watch each night as the lights grow brighter, you can physically see and spiritually recognize the gift that the Lord gave the Jews.

Rabbi Shimon Apisdorf wrote a book about Hanukkah being a time in our lives in which we should "light the inner flame of our souls." Each night he suggests that we examine ourselves; to sit back and look for our inner fire and be sure that it glows within ourselves. We have time to relax during the Hanukkah season and have the time to reflect. It is the gift we can give ourselves.

Sources:

"Chanukah - Eight Nights of Light, Eight Gifts for the Soul," by Rabbi Shimon Apisdorf.

www.chabad.org

www.judaism.com

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