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• The Hanukkah menorah is a candelabra that holds nine candles and is lit during the eight nights of the Jewish holiday known as Hanukkah.

• Fast Facts

  1. Hanukkah 2008 begins at sunset December 21 and ends at sunset December 29About.com: When is Hanukkah 2008?
  2. First night of Hanukkah on Jewish calendar: 25 KislevAkhlah: Hanukkah
  3. The menorah is traditionally lit outside, or where it can be seen from outsideHebrew for Christians: Chanukah Blessings
  4. Menorah also known as a "Hanukiah" and a "Chanukiah"About.com: Hanukkah Menorah
  5. The "Shamash" is the first candle and used to light the other candlesAbout.com: Hanukkah Menorah
  6. A series of blessings are spoken while lighting the menorah
  7. The menorah is lit when the first stars appear in the skyChabad.org: When to Light the Menorah
  8. Lights should burn for at least thirty minutes before extinguishingChabad.org: When to Light the Menorah

• About the Chanukiah

  The Hanukkah menorah, or Chanukiah, was inspired by the lamp that stands in the synagogue, known as ner tamid—which translates to the eternal flame. When the Maccabees reclaimed their holy temple from the Greeks, they discovered that many of the relics in the temple had been stolen or destroyed. They wanted to relight the menorah, but there was only enough oil to burn for one night.

  The miracle of Hanukkah is that the oil burned for not one night, but eight nights. That is why the original ner tamid differs from the Chanukiah. The Chanukiah has nine candle holders, while the temple menorah has only seven.Jewish Virtual Library: Menorah History.com: The History of Hanukkah

  
  

• Related Mahalo Pages

  Hanukkah 2008 | When is Chanukah | How to Light Hanukkah Candles | Hanukkah | Hanukkah Songs | Hanukkah Cupcakes | How to Make and Decorate Hanukkah Cupcakes | How to Celebrate Hanukkah | Hanukkah Games | Hanukkah Blessings

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