What is the significance of lighting the menorah?
Originally olive oil was used in the menorah. Colored candles have since replaced it. The center and tallest candle is used to light all the others. Each night a blessing is recited before the candles are lit. Custom has it that the menorah be lit at nightfall and be displayed in a window or on an open table to “publicize the miracle.” Blessing 1 – Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us by His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the lights of Hanukkah. Blessing 2 – Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who wrought miracles for our fathers in days of old, at this season. Blessing 3 – Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has kept us alive, and has preserved us, and enabled us to reach this time. (This blessing is recited only on the first night or the first time one kindles the Hanukkah lights. On the first night a candle is set in the far right holder on the menorah along with a Shamash (or helper candle), t
