Menorah vs. Hanukkiah: what’s the difference?
Here’s the ice breaker. When most folks ask “how many candles on a menorah,” they usually mean the Hanukkah menorah, also called a hanukkiah.
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A hanukkiah has nine spots for lights.
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The ancient Temple menorah has seven branches.
Both are meaningful Jewish symbols, but they serve different purposes. The hanukkiah is used only for Hanukkah. The seven-branched menorah is a timeless emblem of Jewish learning and light.
So, how many candles are on a Hanukkah menorah?
Nine in total. Eight are for each night of Hanukkah, and one extra is the shamash, the “helper” or attendant light used to light the others. The shamash is usually set apart, either higher, lower, or offset so it’s easy to spot.
Why eight nights?
Hanukkah recalls the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem during the time of the Maccabees. Tradition teaches that a small amount of pure oil, enough for one day, burned for eight. To honor that perseverance and hope, we add light night by night until all eight are glowing.
Where does the shamash go?
Designs vary, but you’ll recognize the shamash because it sits apart from the row of eight. Many hanukkiot place it in the center and a little higher.
How many candles are on the Temple menorah?
The classic menorah described in the Torah has seven branches. It isn’t used for Hanukkah and isn’t lit with candles at home. You’ll often see this seven-branched menorah in art, synagogues, and Jewish symbols. It represents wisdom and enduring light.
How many candles do I need to buy for Hanukkah?
Here’s a quick count for one hanukkiah over the eight nights:
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Night 1: 1 candle + 1 shamash = 2
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Night 2: 2 candles + 1 shamash = 3
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Night 3: 3 candles + 1 shamash = 4
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Night 4: 4 candles + 1 shamash = 5
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Night 5: 5 candles + 1 shamash = 6
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Night 6: 6 candles + 1 shamash = 7
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Night 7: 7 candles + 1 shamash = 8
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Night 8: 8 candles + 1 shamash = 9
Total for the holiday: 44 candles. Most Hanukkah candle boxes are packed with exactly that number so you’re covered.
How to light a Hanukkah menorah step by step
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Place the hanukkiah in a visible spot, often near a window or doorway.
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Add candles right to left. On each new night, place the new candle on the far left, filling in from right to left.
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Light the shamash first. Use it to light the other candles.
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Light left to right. Always start with the newest candle you just placed, then move right.
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Say the blessings. On the first night, there are three blessings; on the following nights, two.
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Let them burn down safely. Hanukkah lights are for celebration and beauty, not for ordinary use like reading or chores.
Safety notes
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Keep the hanukkiah on a stable, heat-safe tray.
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Tuck loose sleeves and tie back hair.
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Keep matches and lit candles out of reach of children and pets.
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Never leave lit candles unattended.
Oil, candles, or electric?
All are common today. Candles are practical and festive. Oil connects directly to the Hanukkah story and can feel especially meaningful. Electric displays are popular for windows in cold climates or where open flames aren’t allowed, though many households still light real candles inside.
What if multiple hanukkiot are in the house?
Beautiful! Many families encourage each person to light their own hanukkiah. If you’re lighting several, give each one enough space and follow the same nightly pattern for each: set candles right to left, light left to right with its own shamash.
The meaning behind growing light
Adding a candle each night is more than a countdown. It’s a gentle ritual of bringing more light into your life, your home, and your community. As the week unfolds, the table gets brighter. Songs feel warmer. The glow lingers a little longer. That’s the heart of Hanukkah.
Related reads and helpful finds
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Celebrate with ease using our Hanukkah how-to guide and tips for first-time hosts.
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Looking for a keepsake? Explore our menorah collection with modern, heirloom-worthy designs.
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Need supplies? Stock up on Hanukkah candles and holiday gift sets that make hosting simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many candles are on a Hanukkah menorah?
Nine total. Eight for each night, plus one shamash used to light the others.
How many candles do I need for all eight nights?
Forty-four candles. That covers every night’s lights plus the shamash.
Which side do I light first?
Light the newest candle first, on the left, then move right.
Do I place candles right to left or left to right?
Place new candles from right to left. Light them from left to right.
What’s the difference between a menorah and a hanukkiah?
A menorah has seven branches and symbolizes enduring light. A hanukkiah has nine lights and is used only for Hanukkah.
Final thoughts
The short answer to “how many candles on a menorah” depends on which menorah you mean. For Hanukkah, you’ll use a hanukkiah with nine lights and a total of 44 candles for the week. Keep the ritual simple, safe, and joyful. If you’d like, we can help you choose candles, a beautiful hanukkiah, or ready-to-gift holiday sets to make your celebration feel special.
