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.

0 views

Jews use 9 candles on the menorah during Hanukkah to commemorate the miracle of the oil. Eight candles represent the eight days the oil lasted, and the ninth candle, called the shamash (helper), is used to light the others. This tradition celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that burned for longer than expected.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the significance of the shamash candle on the menorah? The shamash candle is the ninth candle on the Hanukkah menorah, used as a helper to light the other eight candles each night.
  2. Why are there eight candles on the Hanukkah menorah? The eight candles represent the eight days that the oil miraculously lasted during the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.
  3. What does the Hanukkah menorah symbolize? The Hanukkah menorah symbolizes the miracle of the oil and the Jewish people's resilience, celebrating the rededication of the Holy Temple.