What’s the Difference Between a Menorah and a Hanukkiah?

Technically, a menorah that’s used for Hanukkah is called a Hanukkiah. A menorah is a candelabrum–specifically, it’s a seven-branched candelabrum used in the ancient Temple in Jerusalem. It’s a symbol of Jewish faith and a reminder of divine light.

A Hanukkiah is a special menorah used during Hanukkah. It’s different from a standard menorah in that it has nine branches: one for each night of the holiday and a separate holder for the shamash, the "helper" candle used to light the others. The Hanukkiah is unique to Hanukkah and is used to commemorate the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the rededicated Temple.

A Hanukkiah is a type of menorah, but not all menorahs are Hanukkiahs. So your first step to lighting the menorah is to make sure you have a Hanukkiah!

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Light the Hanukkah Menorah

Lighting the Hanukkah menorah is a meaningful tradition. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide on how to light the menorah each night of Hanukkah:

1. Place the Menorah by a Windowsill

Tradition calls for positioning your menorah in a place where it can be seen from the outside–such as a windowsill or near the front door. 

2. Set Up the Candles

To load a hanukkiah, place one candle in the middle spot for the helper candle, the shamash–some hanukkiahs may not have the shamash in the middle. If that’s the case, then

The shamash is typically the candle that’s at a different level than the rest to be separate from the miracle of each night. Next, place one candle for each night, commonly starting from right to left–the same direction in which you read Hebrew text. So on the first night of Hanukkah, you’ll have two candles–the shamash, and one candle on the far right. On the second night of Hanukkah, you’ll have three candles–the shamash, two candles on the far right, and so on. 

3. Recite the Blessings

Before lighting the candles, say the blessings. On the first night, we say three blessings: one for the commandment to light Hanukkah candles, one for the miracle that was performed for our ancestors in the time of the Maccabees, and the shehecheyanu. On all subsequent nights, we say the first two blessings, but not the shehecheyanu. You can find all of the blessings in our Menorah Blessings book. 

Note: If lighting the menorah on Shabbat (Friday night), the menorah should be lit before the Shabbat candles. So you’ll say the Hanukkah blessings, light the Hanukkah candles, and then move on to the Shabbat candles and blessings. 

4. Light the Menorah Candles

Now that the blessings are recited, use the shamash to light the first candle. On subsequent nights, continue lighting from left to right, using the shamash to light the newest candle first. 

5. Sing Songs and Enjoy the Moment

After lighting the menorah, take time to sing your favorite traditional Hanukkah songs! Some traditional favorites include the traditional Maoz Tzur (Rock of Ages), Hanukkah oh Hanukkah, or the Dreidel Song.

Alternative Rituals for Lighting the Menorah

Looking to bring more meaning and ritual into your menorah lighting experience this year? Consider incorporating one (or multiple!) of these rituals into your process.

1. Dedicate Your Candles Each Night of Hanukkah

Use our candle lighting dedications book to build a nightly theme into your menorah experience. These prompts will help you deepen your understanding of Hanukkah and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

2. Write Your Own Blessings

If the traditional Hanukkah blessings don’t resonate with you, or if you want to supplement them with something more personal, try writing your own blessing. Maybe make a list of all of the things you’re grateful for, or of all of the places you are finding light in the world. You can also try making a list of all of the miracles in your life.

3. Make an Edible Menorah

Supplement your candle menorah with an edible menorah. Here are some fun family-friendly ideas. Instead of lighting the flames, take a bite out of your tasty treat! 

Why Do We Light the Hanukkah Menorah?

The Hanukkah menorah isn't just a beautiful decoration—it’s a symbol of faith, hope, and resilience. The ritual of lighting the menorah each night recalls the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days after the destruction of the Temple. 

Whether you're lighting the menorah for the first time or celebrating your 70th Hanukkah, you’re participating in a tradition that has lasted for thousands of years, adding your own light to the world and honoring the legacy and resilience of the Jewish people. 

Hanukkah Sameach!