Lighting
the Menorah
On the first
night of Hanukkah, a single candle (or oil wick) is lit
on the far right side of the menorah. A candle is added,
from right to left, each night, and the newest candle
is always lit first. Ideally, the candles should be lit
as soon as stars become visible in the night sky, but
they can be lit late into the night. While the candles
are being lit and the blessing given, the whole family
and any guests gather to witness the ceremony; everyone
is encouraged to participate. By the eighth night, with
all eight candles lit, the menorah makes a spectacular
sight. And as they did the previous evenings, the candles
will continue to shine until they burn themselves out.
