SECOND CENTURY OF HANUKKAH CELEBRATION...

This evening at sundown marks the beginning of Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, which is celebrated for eight days, ending December 24 this year. Hanukkah means ‘dedication,’ and each day, as one of nine candles is lit, people remember the miracle of the lamp that lasted for eight days.

What is a Hanukkah Menorah?

The Hanukkah menorah is a candle holder with nine arms, with each one holding one candle. The eight candles correspond to the eight days of Hanukkah. The ninth candle, usually the middle, is called the shamash and is used to light the other candles of the menorah. There are also menorahs which only have seven arms, but these are typically only a representation of menorahs in the ancient Temple. Today, a menorah can take on many forms and are increasingly decorative. Still, the shamash arm has to be higher than the others in order for the menorah to be kosher.