Why Are There 9 Candles on the Hanukkah Menorah for the 8-Day Festival?

Discover why Hanukkah has 9 candles on the menorah, including the special Shamash candle used for lighting the others during the 8-day celebration.

238 views

The reason there are 9 candles for Hanukkah despite it being an 8-day festival is due to the presence of the Shamash, or 'helper' candle. The Shamash is used to light the other eight candles, one for each night of Hanukkah, to commemorate the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days in the Holy Temple. The extra candle, placed distinctively, either higher or lower than the others, serves a practical purpose and honors the ancient tradition.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the role of the Shamash candle on the Hanukkah menorah? The Shamash candle is the helper candle used to light the other eight candles on the menorah during Hanukkah, placed either higher or lower than the others.
  2. Why does Hanukkah last for 8 days? Hanukkah lasts for 8 days to commemorate the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days in the Holy Temple despite there only being enough oil for one day.
  3. How are the Hanukkah candles lit each night? Each night, one additional candle is lit on the menorah using the Shamash candle, starting with one on the first night and ending with eight on the last night.

Watch More

For more insights on Hanukkah traditions, explore our related videos and articles on the history of the menorah, the story of the oil miracle, and other important Jewish customs during this festive season.

  1. Why Do Jews Use 9 Candles on the Hanukkah Menorah? Discover why the Hanukkah menorah has 9 candles: 8 for the oil miracle days and 1 shamash candle for lighting others.
  2. What Do the 8 Candles of Hanukkah Represent? Discover the meaning behind the 8 Hanukkah candles symbolizing the miracle of oil lasting eight days in the Holy Temple of Jerusalem.