The Hanukkah prayer is central to the celebration of Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights. Observed for eight days, Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days.
For UK readers seeking clarity on the Hanukkah prayer, this guide explains the key blessings, when they are recited, their meaning and how they are traditionally observed.
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What Is the Hanukkah Prayer?
The Hanukkah prayer refers to a series of blessings recited during the lighting of the menorah each evening of the festival. These blessings express gratitude for the miracles associated with Hanukkah and the opportunity to observe the commandment.
There are typically two blessings recited each night, with a third blessing added on the first evening only.
The Main Hanukkah Blessings
1. Blessing Over the Candles
This blessing acknowledges the commandment to light the Hanukkah candles.
Transliteration:
Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel Hanukkah.
Meaning in English:
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to light the Hanukkah light.
2. Blessing for the Miracles
This blessing thanks God for the miracles performed for the Jewish people.
Transliteration:
Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, she’asah nisim la’avoteinu bayamim hahem bazman hazeh.
Meaning in English:
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in those days at this time.
3. Shehecheyanu (First Night Only)
On the first evening of Hanukkah, a third blessing known as Shehecheyanu is recited to express gratitude for reaching this season.
Transliteration:
Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, shehecheyanu v’kiyemanu v’higianu lazman hazeh.
Meaning in English:
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has kept us alive, sustained us and enabled us to reach this season.
When Is the Hanukkah Prayer Recited?
The Hanukkah prayer is recited each evening after nightfall during the eight days of the festival.
- One candle is lit on the first night
- An additional candle is added each night
- On the eighth night, all eight candles are lit
The blessings are recited before lighting the candles.
How the Menorah Is Lit
The Hanukkah menorah, also known as a hanukkiah, holds nine branches. Eight are for the nights of Hanukkah, and one is the helper candle known as the shamash.
The shamash is used to light the other candles. Each night, candles are placed from right to left but lit from left to right, starting with the newest candle.
Additional Hanukkah Prayers
In addition to the candle-lighting blessings, a prayer known as “Al HaNissim” is added to daily prayers and grace after meals during Hanukkah. This prayer reflects on the historical events and expresses gratitude for deliverance and victory.
Many families also sing traditional songs after lighting the menorah, including hymns that celebrate the miracle of the oil.
Meaning and Spiritual Significance
The Hanukkah prayer focuses on themes of:
- Gratitude
- Faith
- Perseverance
- Spiritual resilience
- Light overcoming darkness
For many Jewish families in the UK and worldwide, the daily recitation of these blessings strengthens connection to heritage and community.
Public Hanukkah Celebrations in the UK
In recent years, public menorah lightings have become more visible in major UK cities. Community gatherings often include the recitation of the Hanukkah prayer, music and traditional foods.
These events provide an opportunity for both Jewish and non-Jewish attendees to learn about the festival’s meaning.
Common Questions About the Hanukkah Prayer
Do You Need to Know Hebrew?
While the blessings are traditionally recited in Hebrew, many people use transliterations and English translations to understand the meaning.
Can the Prayer Be Said at Any Time?
The blessings should be recited during the proper time for candle lighting, typically after sunset.
Is Attendance at a Synagogue Required?
The Hanukkah prayer is commonly recited at home with family. Synagogue attendance is not required for the candle-lighting ritual.
Final Thoughts on the Hanukkah Prayer
The Hanukkah prayer is more than a ritual recitation. It is a moment of reflection, gratitude and celebration repeated each evening of the festival. By lighting the menorah and reciting these blessings, families connect with centuries of tradition and reaffirm enduring spiritual values.
For UK readers seeking clarity on the Hanukkah prayer, understanding both the text and its meaning enhances appreciation of one of Judaism’s most widely observed festivals.