Brooke Martin
The tradition of lighting the menorah is a central part of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, an eight-day celebration commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Each night, a new candle is added to the menorah, starting with one on the first night and culminating in all eight candles being lit by the final evening. The question of when to blow out the menorah candles is an important aspect of this ritual. According to Jewish custom, the candles should burn for at least half an hour after being lit, and it is customary to let them burn out naturally, as extinguishing them prematurely is considered disrespectful. However, if necessary, the candles can be blown out after this time has passed, ensuring the flames are completely extinguished to maintain safety and adhere to the holiday's traditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to Light the Menorah | Each night of Hanukkah, starting at sunset. |
| Order of Lighting | One candle (the shamash) is used to light the others, adding one new candle each night from right to left, but placing the newest lit candle on the leftmost position. |
| When to Blow Out the Candles | Candles are not blown out; they are allowed to burn down completely or are extinguished with a tool to avoid touching the flame. |
| Reason for Not Blowing Out | Blowing out the candles is considered disrespectful to the sanctity of the Hanukkah lights. |
| Duration of Burning | Candles should burn for at least 30 minutes after nightfall, or until after the recitation of the Hanukkah blessings and songs. |
| Use of Shamash | The shamash (helper candle) is used to light the other candles and is not part of the Hanukkah lights themselves. |
| Placement of Menorah | The menorah should be placed in a prominent location, such as a windowsill, to publicize the miracle of Hanukkah. |
| Blessings Recited | Three blessings are recited on the first night, and two on subsequent nights, before lighting the candles. |
| Cultural Significance | Lighting the menorah symbolizes the miracle of the oil lasting eight days in the Temple and the triumph of light over darkness. |
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What You'll Learn
- First Night: One candle plus the shamash is lit and blown out after specific prayers
- Subsequent Nights: Additional candles are lit each night, following the same ritualistic process
- Timing: Candles are blown out after displaying them for at least 30 minutes
- Blessings: Specific blessings are recited before and after lighting, with no blessings for extinguishing
- Traditions: Some families sing songs or say prayers before blowing out the candles each night
First Night: One candle plus the shamash is lit and blown out after specific prayers
On the first night of Hanukkah, the menorah lighting ceremony begins with the recitation of specific blessings and prayers. The menorah used for this holiday has nine branches: one for each night of the festival, plus an additional candle called the shamash (helper or servant candle). The shamash is used to light the other candles and is typically placed in the center or at a different height to distinguish it from the others. On the first night, the shamash is lit first, and then it is used to light the candle on the far right of the menorah. This process is accompanied by the recitation of three blessings: one praising God for sanctifying the commandments, another for the miracle of Hanukkah, and a third for the season’s joy. These prayers are said only on the first night, with a slight variation on subsequent nights.
After the blessings are recited, the shamash and the first candle are left to burn for at least half an hour, or until they have burned down sufficiently. It is important to note that the candles should not be used for any practical purpose, such as lighting a room, but are meant solely for the spiritual observance of the holiday. The act of lighting the menorah symbolizes the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the Temple, and the candles serve as a reminder of this divine intervention.
The question of when to blow out the candles on the first night is a specific aspect of the ritual. Unlike some traditions where candles are blown out immediately after being lit, the menorah candles are allowed to burn naturally. However, if one wishes to extinguish them, it should be done after the specific prayers have been recited and the candles have burned for a while. Blowing out the candles immediately after lighting is generally discouraged, as it diminishes the symbolic act of the candles burning to commemorate the miracle.
On the first night, once the prayers are complete and the candles have been allowed to burn, the shamash and the first candle may be extinguished if desired. Traditionally, many families leave the candles burning until they extinguish on their own, as this is seen as allowing the light of the miracle to shine as long as possible. However, if blowing them out is preferred, it should be done gently and respectfully, ensuring that the act does not detract from the solemnity of the occasion.
In summary, on the first night of Hanukkah, one candle plus the shamash is lit after reciting specific prayers. The candles are then allowed to burn for a period of time, typically at least half an hour, to fulfill the commandment of publicizing the miracle. Blowing out the candles, if done, should occur after the prayers and the initial burning period, with care taken to maintain the reverence of the ritual. This practice ensures that the menorah’s light serves as a meaningful reminder of the holiday’s spiritual significance.
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Subsequent Nights: Additional candles are lit each night, following the same ritualistic process
On the subsequent nights of Hanukkah, the ritual of lighting the menorah continues with the addition of one more candle each evening. The process remains consistent, rooted in tradition and symbolism. Each night, the shamash (the helper candle) is lit first, using it to kindle the other candles. Beginning on the second night, the newest candle is placed on the far left of the menorah, with the previous night’s candles positioned to its right. The shamash is then used to light the new candle, followed by the others, always lighting from left to right but ensuring the most recently added candle is lit first. This methodical approach ensures that each night’s lighting builds upon the previous one, symbolizing the gradual increase of light and hope.
The timing of lighting the menorah on subsequent nights follows the same principle as the first night: it must be done at nightfall, typically around sunset. This consistency reinforces the unity of the eight-day celebration. Once the candles are lit, the blessings are recited, just as they were on the first night. The first blessing acknowledges the commandment to light the candles, while the second praises God for the miracles of Hanukkah. On the eighth night, a third blessing, the Shehecheyanu, is added to commemorate the completion of the festival. This ritualistic process ensures that each night is marked with intention and reverence.
After the candles are lit and the blessings are recited, they are allowed to burn for at least half an hour. However, unlike some traditions where candles are blown out, Hanukkah candles are left to extinguish naturally. This is because the light of the menorah is considered sacred, representing the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the Temple. Blowing out the candles would diminish their symbolic significance. Instead, families gather around the menorah to sing traditional songs, such as Ma’oz Tzur, and reflect on the meaning of the holiday.
As the nights progress, the menorah becomes increasingly illuminated, with the light growing brighter each evening. This visual representation of the miracle is a powerful reminder of the resilience and faith of the Jewish people. The additional candles each night also serve as a countdown to the final night, building anticipation and joy. Families often place the menorah in a prominent location, such as a windowsill, to share the light with the community, spreading the message of hope and miracles.
On the final night, all eight candles, plus the shamash, are lit, creating the fullest display of light. This culmination signifies the completion of the miracle and the full restoration of light, both literally and metaphorically. While the candles are not blown out, their natural extinguishing marks the end of the nightly ritual, leaving families to reflect on the lessons of Hanukkah until the following year. The consistent process of lighting additional candles each night ensures that the holiday’s message of perseverance and faith is reinforced daily, making each subsequent night as meaningful as the first.
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Timing: Candles are blown out after displaying them for at least 30 minutes
The timing for blowing out the candles on the menorah is an important aspect of the Hanukkah tradition, and it is essential to follow the guidelines to ensure a meaningful and respectful celebration. According to Jewish law and custom, candles should be displayed for a minimum of 30 minutes after they are lit. This waiting period serves multiple purposes, both practical and symbolic. Firstly, it allows the candles to burn long enough to be seen and appreciated by passersby, fulfilling the mitzvah (commandment) of publicizing the Hanukkah miracle. By letting the candles shine for this duration, families can share the joy and light of the festival with their community.
During Hanukkah, the menorah is typically lit after sunset, and this 30-minute rule applies to each evening's candle-lighting ceremony. It is a time for families to gather, recite the blessings, and enjoy the warm glow of the candles. The atmosphere created by the flickering flames is an integral part of the holiday's charm, and extending this moment for half an hour adds to the overall experience. This practice also ensures that the candles burn long enough to create a noticeable difference in their height, with the shamash (the helper candle) being used to light the others and then placed in its designated spot.
After the initial lighting and the recitation of traditional blessings, it is customary to spend time singing Hanukkah songs, spinning the dreidel, and engaging in other festive activities. This period of celebration and enjoyment is an essential part of the holiday, fostering a sense of community and joy. Once the 30-minute mark has passed, it is then appropriate to extinguish the flames. Blowing out the candles is a gentle and respectful way to conclude the evening's ceremony, ensuring that the wax doesn't drip excessively and that the menorah remains in good condition for the following night's use.
It is worth noting that while the candles should be left burning for at least 30 minutes, they can be left to burn for longer if desired. Some families may choose to let the candles burn until they naturally extinguish, especially if they are using oil lamps, which was the traditional method before wax candles became common. However, for those using wax candles, it is generally recommended to blow them out after the minimum time has elapsed to prevent any potential mess or safety hazards. This timing tradition ensures a balanced approach, allowing for a meaningful display while also being practical and safe.
In summary, the timing of blowing out the menorah candles is a thoughtful and intentional part of the Hanukkah ritual. By waiting at least 30 minutes after lighting, families can honor the tradition, create a warm ambiance, and share the light of the festival with others. This practice encourages a sense of community and provides a structured yet flexible framework for celebrating this ancient and beloved Jewish holiday. Following these guidelines ensures that the candle-lighting ceremony is both meaningful and safe, allowing the beauty of the menorah to shine brightly during this special time of year.
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Blessings: Specific blessings are recited before and after lighting, with no blessings for extinguishing
The tradition of lighting the menorah during Hanukkah is accompanied by specific blessings that are recited before and after the lighting of the candles. These blessings, known as the shehecheyanu and the hanerot halalu, are central to the ritual and serve to sanctify the act of lighting. The shehecheyanu is recited only on the first night of Hanukkah, giving thanks for reaching this special occasion, while the hanerot halalu is recited every night, explaining the reason for lighting the candles and commemorating the miracle of the oil. It is important to recite these blessings with intention and focus, as they connect the act of lighting to its spiritual significance.
After the blessings are recited, the candles are lit, starting with one on the first night and increasing by one each subsequent night. The candles are placed in the menorah from right to left but lit from left to right, symbolizing the progression of the festival. Once lit, the candles should burn for at least half an hour after nightfall, allowing their light to be seen and serve as a reminder of the miracle of Hanukkah. While the lighting is a sacred act, the extinguishing of the candles is not accompanied by any specific blessings. This distinction emphasizes the importance of the light itself and the blessings that precede it.
When it comes to extinguishing the candles, there is no formal ritual or blessing required. Traditionally, the candles are allowed to burn out naturally, though it is permissible to blow them out if necessary. The absence of a blessing for extinguishing reflects the Jewish principle that the holiness of the mitzvah (commandment) lies in the act of lighting, not in the cessation of the light. This also aligns with the idea that the light of the menorah is meant to be a source of inspiration and joy, and its extinguishing is a practical matter rather than a spiritual one.
It is worth noting that while there are no specific blessings for extinguishing the candles, some families may choose to say a brief prayer or express gratitude for the light before putting it out. This practice, though not mandated, can add a personal touch to the tradition and reinforce the values of Hanukkah. However, such additions are entirely optional and do not replace the formal blessings recited during the lighting. The focus remains on the act of kindling the light and the spiritual connection it fosters.
In summary, the blessings recited before and after lighting the menorah are a cornerstone of the Hanukkah tradition, grounding the ritual in spiritual meaning. The shehecheyanu and hanerot halalu blessings are carefully recited to sanctify the act of lighting, while the extinguishing of the candles is a simple, unblessed action. This distinction highlights the significance of the light itself and the miracle it commemorates. By understanding and observing these practices, individuals can fully engage with the spiritual depth of Hanukkah and its timeless message of hope and perseverance.
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Traditions: Some families sing songs or say prayers before blowing out the candles each night
The tradition of lighting the menorah during Hanukkah is rich with customs that vary from family to family, yet many share the practice of singing songs or saying prayers before extinguishing the candles each night. This ritual adds a layer of spiritual and communal depth to the act of blowing out the candles, transforming it from a simple task into a meaningful moment of reflection and connection. Typically, the candles are left to burn until they extinguish on their own, but when it’s time to end the evening or ensure safety, families often gather to conclude the ritual with intention. Before doing so, they may sing traditional Hanukkah songs like *Ma’oz Tzur* (Rock of Ages), a hymn that recounts the miracles and protection granted to the Jewish people throughout history. This song is sung after lighting the candles each night and sometimes repeated before they are extinguished, creating a bookend of gratitude and praise.
Prayers also play a significant role in this tradition. Some families recite the *Shehecheyanu*, a blessing that expresses gratitude for reaching this special occasion, or the *Hanerot Halalu*, a prayer specifically tied to the menorah lighting. These prayers emphasize the miracles of Hanukkah, particularly the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the Temple. By saying these prayers before blowing out the candles, families reinforce the spiritual significance of the holiday and pass down its teachings to younger generations. This act serves as a reminder of the resilience and faith of the Jewish people, making the extinguishing of the candles a moment of both closure and continuity.
In addition to songs and prayers, some families incorporate personal or familial traditions into this nightly ritual. For example, they might share stories of past Hanukkah celebrations, discuss the meaning of the holiday, or express personal wishes for the coming year. This practice fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, ensuring that the act of blowing out the candles is not just a physical action but a communal experience. It also allows families to adapt the tradition to their unique cultural or personal backgrounds, making it a dynamic and inclusive part of their Hanukkah observance.
The timing of blowing out the candles is often tied to these traditions, as families wait until the songs are sung and the prayers are said before extinguishing the flames. This sequence ensures that the candles’ light—a symbol of the Hanukkah miracle—is honored and appreciated fully. While the candles are traditionally left to burn out naturally, the act of blowing them out becomes a deliberate and sacred moment when it does occur. This approach aligns with the holiday’s emphasis on light as a symbol of hope, perseverance, and divine presence, making the conclusion of each night’s menorah lighting as meaningful as its beginning.
Ultimately, the traditions of singing songs and saying prayers before blowing out the menorah candles reflect the deeper values of Hanukkah: gratitude, unity, and remembrance. These customs not only enrich the holiday experience but also strengthen the bonds between family members and their connection to Jewish heritage. Whether through the solemn recitation of prayers or the joyful singing of songs, families create lasting memories and instill a sense of tradition that endures from one generation to the next. By approaching the extinguishing of the candles with intention and reverence, they ensure that the light of Hanukkah continues to shine brightly, even after the flames are gone.
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Frequently asked questions
You do not blow out the candles on the menorah. Instead, they are allowed to burn out naturally or are extinguished with a tool to avoid the prohibition of benefiting from the candle’s light after it has been extinguished.
Blowing out the menorah candles is avoided due to a Jewish law (Halacha) that prohibits extinguishing flames with your breath on Shabbat or during the lighting of the menorah, as it is considered a form of creating (or destroying) a flame, which is forbidden.
A special tool called a *ner tamid* (eternal light) extinguisher or a non-flammable object like a metal lid or snuffer can be used to carefully extinguish the flames without blowing.
