Hanukkah Candles: What They're Called & Where To Find Them | Tips

Are you curious about the traditions of Hanukkah, and specifically, the role of candles in this vibrant celebration? Hanukkah candles, though seemingly simple, represent the heart of the holiday, illuminating a story of faith, resilience, and hope that has resonated for centuries.

The flickering flames of the menorah, a candelabrum with nine branches, are the centerpiece of Hanukkah. Each night of the eight-day festival, another candle is lit, adding to the glow and symbolizing the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days in the Temple of Jerusalem. The story behind the ritual speaks volumes. When the Maccabees reclaimed the Temple from the Seleucid Empire, they found only enough consecrated oil to light the menorah for a single day. Yet, miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, allowing them to rededicate the Temple. This miracle is the very essence of Hanukkah.

So, what exactly are these candles called, and why are they so significant? Interestingly, Hanukkah candles don't have a special, exclusive name. You can perfectly refer to them as "Hanukkah candles." If you wish to be more specific, or perhaps to converse in Hebrew, you can call them "nerot," which is simply the Hebrew word for candles. Its a familiar term, a reminder of the everyday object that takes on a spiritual significance during this special time.

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But the candles themselves are not the only important element. The type of holder and the presentation, especially the location is also of important. Accessories such as decorative candle holders, play a major role in the lighting ceremony. These holders, designed for tapered or votive candles, not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also ensure the safety and stability of the candles as they burn.

The candles themselves come in a myriad of colors. While there isn't a rule that dictates what color they should be, it's more a matter of personal preference. Some choose traditional white candles, while others opt for a kaleidoscope of hues, adding a vibrant touch to the celebration. This is where the element of creativity and personalization comes in.

The ritual of lighting the candles is a central part of the Hanukkah celebration. Every evening, after sunset, the menorah is lit. One candle is lit on the first night, two on the second, and so on, until all eight candles are lit on the eighth night. A ninth candle, called the "shamash" (helper), is used to light the other candles. The shamash is placed in the center of the menorah, a visual and practical reminder of the miracle. A total of 44 candles are needed to complete the ritual over the eight nights of Hanukkah. Most boxes of Hanukkah candles contain 45, providing enough for the entire festival with a few spares.

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Beyond the candles and the lighting ceremony, Hanukkah is a time for family, friends, and festivities. Traditional foods, like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly donuts), are enjoyed. Children play with dreidels (spinning tops) and receive gelt (chocolate coins). Gift-giving is also a part of the celebration, with small gifts exchanged each night. The focus is on celebrating Jewish identity and the triumph of light over darkness, both literally and metaphorically.

Now, let's explore some of the other elements often associated with Hanukkah, offering a comprehensive view of the holiday.

The Significance of Gelt and Dreidels:

Gelt, or chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil, and the dreidel game, are integral parts of the Hanukkah celebration, particularly for children. Gelt is distributed as a reward for successfully playing the dreidel game or simply given as a gift during the holiday. The dreidel, a four-sided spinning top, has Hebrew letters on each side that represent "a great miracle happened there" (referring to the miracle of the oil). The game itself involves players betting on where the dreidel lands, fostering a sense of fun and community.

The Feast and Festivities:

Hanukkah isn't just about lighting candles; it's a time for feasting and celebration. Traditional foods are a key element. Latkes, crispy potato pancakes, are fried in oil, symbolizing the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days. Sufganiyot, or jelly donuts, are another favorite, also fried in oil and enjoyed with family and friends. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by the singing of Hanukkah songs, storytelling, and gathering together.

Modern Interpretations and Observances:

While adhering to traditional observances, Hanukkah has adapted to modern times. Families might gather to exchange gifts each night. There are also numerous contemporary ways to experience Hanukkah, ranging from attending community celebrations to engaging in cultural activities. The holiday is celebrated with a diverse array of activities, reflecting its enduring relevance.

Beyond the basics, it is worth mentioning that while most of the shopping for Hanukkah is done at the local stores, you can also enjoy the convenience of online shopping. CVS, for instance, offers free shipping on most orders and promotions on stocking stuffers and gifts, simplifying the shopping experience during the busy holiday season. You can also utilize CVS's offers, which can include "2% back in Extrabucks Rewards" on qualifying purchases, a practical way to save on holiday expenses.

Hanukkah, The Season Of Gifts

The holiday isn't merely a somber reflection of the past; it's a celebration of life, resilience, and hope. Hanukkah's symbols, rituals, and traditions continue to be relevant, providing moments of connection, education, and communal solidarity. Whether you're lighting the menorah, enjoying delicious food, or spending time with your loved ones, Hanukkah provides an opportunity to celebrate faith, tradition, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this celebration is the interplay between the historical and the contemporary. While the core traditions remain the same, the methods of celebrating have evolved. For example, the marketing for Hanukkah has adapted. Retailers, like West Elm, have attempted to create specific products for Hanukkah. It remains to be seen how these initiatives will go.

Ultimately, Hanukkah is a holiday that provides an opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future. It serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of faith, the importance of community, and the enduring power of light over darkness. The simplicity of lighting candles belies the profound meaning, providing comfort and hope across generations.