What is HANUKKAH

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The menorah should be place somewhere in your home such that it is visible from the street.  The purpose of lighting the menorah is not only to commemorate but also to publicize the miracle of the oil.  Most families today place their menorah in the window.

At nightfall, gather your family around the menorah. 

•    Recite the following blessing at nightfall on the first day of Hanukkah before you light the first candle.  "Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with his commandments and commanded us to kindle the lights of Hanukkah."

•    Light the shamash and use it to light the candle on the far right of the menorah.  As you do, recite the second blessing:  “Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors, at this season, in days past.”

•    Replace the Shamash and let both candles burn for at least on half hour after nightfall.

•    Recite the third blessing only on the first night of Hanukkah: "Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, who gave us life and kept us and delivered us to this time.”

•    On the second night, and each night thereafter, use the Shamash to light the new candle first and then the one from the previous night(s) while saying blessings one and two above.