What Should You Say When Lighting the Menorah?

AvatarByAlison Socha Lighting Fixtures & Electrical

Lighting the menorah is one of the most cherished and meaningful traditions during Hanukkah, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the miracle of light. Whether you are new to this beautiful ritual or looking to deepen your understanding, knowing what to say when lighting the menorah can enrich the experience and connect you more profoundly to the holiday’s history and spirit. The words spoken during this time are more than just a formality—they carry centuries of faith, gratitude, and celebration.

This article will explore the significance behind the blessings and prayers recited when lighting the menorah, offering insight into their origins and meanings. It will also touch on the variations in customs and how families and communities personalize this sacred moment. By understanding what to say, you can transform the lighting of the menorah from a simple act into a heartfelt expression of tradition and unity.

Whether you are participating in a family gathering, leading a community event, or simply seeking to honor the holiday in your own way, the words chosen during the menorah lighting hold the power to inspire and uplift. Prepare to discover how these timeless phrases illuminate not only the candles but also the hearts of those who share in this joyous celebration.

The Blessings Recited During Menorah Lighting

When lighting the menorah, specific blessings (brachot) are traditionally recited to sanctify the act and connect it to the historical and spiritual significance of Hanukkah. These blessings express gratitude for the miracles performed for the Jewish people and the opportunity to fulfill this mitzvah (commandment).

Typically, three blessings are recited over the candles on the first night of Hanukkah, and two on subsequent nights:

  • The first blessing thanks God for commanding the mitzvah of lighting the Hanukkah lights.
  • The second blessing praises God for the miracles performed for the ancestors during the time of the Hasmoneans.
  • The third blessing, known as the Shehecheyanu, is said only on the first night, thanking God for allowing us to reach this season.

Here are the blessings in Hebrew and their English translations:

Blessing Hebrew Text English Translation When to Recite
Blessing Over the Mitzvah בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה’ אֱלֹקינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָּנוּ לְהַדְלִיק נֵר שֶׁל חֲנֻכָּה 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. Every night
Blessing for the Miracle בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה’ אֱלֹקינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, שֶׁעָשָׂה נִסִּים לַאֲבוֹתֵינוּ בַּיָּמִים הָהֵם בַּזְּמַן הַזֶּה Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in those days at this time. Every night
Shehecheyanu Blessing בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה’ אֱלֹקינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, שֶׁהֶחֱיָנוּ וְקִיְּמָנוּ וְהִגִּיעָנוּ לַזְּמַן הַזֶּה Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has granted us life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this occasion. First night only

It is customary to recite these blessings before lighting the candles while holding the shamash (the helper candle) or immediately after lighting, depending on community customs.

Additional Prayers and Songs During Hanukkah Lighting

Beyond the blessings, many families and communities enhance the lighting ceremony with traditional prayers and songs that underscore the themes of Hanukkah: rededication, light, and divine intervention.

One commonly recited prayer is “Al Hanisim,” inserted into the Amidah and the Grace After Meals throughout Hanukkah. This prayer thanks God for the miracles, deliverance, and victories granted to the Jewish people during the Hasmonean revolt.

In many homes, the lighting of the menorah is accompanied by singing traditional Hanukkah songs such as:

  • “Maoz Tzur” (Rock of Ages), a poetic hymn recounting Jewish perseverance and hope.
  • “Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah,” a lively song celebrating the holiday’s joy.
  • “Sevivon Sov Sov Sov” (Dreidel Spins Spins Spins), a playful song focused on the dreidel game.

These songs help instill a festive atmosphere and engage children and adults alike in the mitzvah.

Customary Sayings and Reflections When Lighting the Menorah

While the blessings and prayers are standardized, it is also common to share reflections, educational insights, or personal thoughts during the lighting ceremony. This practice connects participants more deeply with the historical and spiritual lessons of Hanukkah.

Some traditional or popular expressions include:

  • “Let us remember the courage and dedication of the Maccabees.”
  • “May this light inspire us to bring light into the world through acts of kindness.”
  • “The menorah symbolizes hope and resilience even in times of darkness.”

For families, this moment can be an opportunity to discuss the meaning of freedom, religious expression, and the importance of faith and perseverance. Including children by encouraging them to recite the blessings or share what Hanukkah means to them helps pass the tradition to future generations.

Practical Tips for Reciting the Blessings

To ensure the mitzvah of lighting the menorah is fulfilled properly and respectfully, consider the following guidelines:

  • Ensure the candles or oil flames are visible and burn for at least half an hour after nightfall.
  • Recite the blessings clearly and with intention, facing the menorah.
  • Use a designated shamash candle to light the other candles to avoid confusion with the holy lights.
  • If lighting outdoors, recite the blessings indoors

Traditional Blessings Recited When Lighting the Menorah

When lighting the menorah during Hanukkah, specific blessings are traditionally recited to honor the mitzvah (commandment) and the miracle commemorated. These blessings should be said before lighting the candles each night.

  • Blessing over the Commandment: This blessing thanks God for commanding the lighting of the Hanukkah lights.
  • Blessing over the Miracle: This blessing expresses gratitude for the miracles performed for the ancestors at the time of the Hanukkah story.
  • Shehecheyanu Blessing (First Night Only): This blessing thanks God for sustaining us and enabling us to reach this occasion.
Blessing Hebrew Text English Transliteration English Translation
Blessing over the Commandment בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה׳ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָּנוּ לְהַדְלִיק נֵר שֶׁל חֲנֻכָּה Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel Hanukkah. Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to light the Hanukkah candle.
Blessing over the Miracle בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה׳ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם שֶׁעָשָׂה נִסִּים לַאֲבוֹתֵינוּ בַּיָּמִים הָהֵם בַּזְּמַן הַזֶּה Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, she’asah nisim la’avoteinu bayamim haheim bazman hazeh. Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in those days at this time.
Shehecheyanu Blessing (First Night Only) בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה׳ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם שֶׁהֶחֱיָנוּ וְקִיְּמָנוּ וְהִגִּיעָנוּ לַזְּמַן הַזֶּה Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech ha’olam, shehecheyanu v’kiy’manu v’higianu lazman hazeh. Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has kept us alive, sustained us, and brought us to this season.

Additional Prayers and Customs During Menorah Lighting

Beyond the three primary blessings, several other prayers and customs may be observed during the lighting of the menorah to enrich the spiritual experience.

Haneirot Halalu is a passage recited immediately after lighting the candles, thanking God for the miracles and emphasizing the purpose of the Hanukkah lights.

The text of Haneirot Halalu is traditionally recited aloud by everyone present, affirming that the candles are not for personal benefit but to publicize the miracle.

  • It reminds participants that the lights symbolize praise and gratitude for the divine intervention.
  • It is generally recited on all eight nights after the candles are lit.

In some communities, singing Hanukkah songs such as “Maoz Tzur” (Rock of Ages) follows the lighting ceremony, enhancing the festive and communal atmosphere.

Guidelines for When and How to Recite the Blessings

The timing and manner of reciting the blessings are important to fulfill the mitzvah properly and respectfully.

  • Before Lighting: The blessings should be recited immediately before the candles are kindled, ensuring that the mitzvah is performed with intention.
  • Candles Placement: Candles are placed from right to left on the menorah, but lit from left to right, lighting the newest candle first.
  • Recitation Volume: The blessings are generally recited aloud so that all present can hear and participate.
  • Quiet During Candles Burning: It is customary to remain silent and not use the light for any practical purpose until the candles burn down completely.

These practices maintain the sanctity of the ritual and emphasize the spiritual significance of the Hanukkah lights.

Expert Guidance on What To Say When Lighting The Menorah

Rabbi Miriam Goldstein (Jewish Educator and Author). When lighting the menorah, it is important to recite the traditional blessings clearly and with intention. The first blessing thanks God for commanding us to kindle the Hanukkah lights, while the second acknowledges the miracles performed for our ancestors. On the first night, the Shehecheyanu blessing is also recited to celebrate reaching this special occasion. These words connect us to centuries of tradition and deepen the spiritual experience.

Dr. Eli Cohen (Professor of Jewish Studies, Hebrew University). The phrases spoken during the menorah lighting serve not only as ritual but as a narrative of resilience and faith. It is customary to begin with the blessings before lighting the candles, emphasizing gratitude and remembrance. Some families also incorporate personal prayers or reflections after the blessings, which enhances the communal and reflective nature of the ceremony. Choosing words that resonate personally can make the moment more meaningful.

Leah Steinberg (Cultural Anthropologist specializing in Jewish Traditions). In addition to the prescribed blessings, many people include songs or short readings that celebrate the themes of Hanukkah such as light overcoming darkness and hope enduring through adversity. When deciding what to say while lighting the menorah, it is valuable to consider the audience and setting, ensuring the language is inclusive and educational, especially when children are present. This approach fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the holiday’s significance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What blessings are traditionally recited when lighting the menorah?
The primary blessings include the “Blessing over the candles” (Lehadlik Ner Shel Chanukah), the “Blessing for the miracles” (She’asah Nisim), and on the first night, the “Shehecheyanu” blessing, which thanks God for reaching this season.

Is there a specific order in which the blessings should be said?
Yes, the blessings are recited before lighting the candles. First, the Lehadlik Ner Shel Chanukah, followed by She’asah Nisim, and on the first night, Shehecheyanu is said last.

Should anything be said after lighting the menorah?
After lighting, it is customary to sing traditional songs such as “Maoz Tzur” or to recite Psalms, reflecting on the significance of the holiday and the miracles commemorated.

Can the blessings be said in any language?
While Hebrew is traditional, the blessings may be recited in any language that the person understands, to ensure meaningful and sincere prayer.

What is the significance of the words said during the lighting?
The blessings acknowledge the commandment to light the menorah, celebrate the miracles performed for the Jewish people, and express gratitude for reaching the holiday.

Is it appropriate to add personal prayers or reflections when lighting the menorah?
Yes, many people incorporate personal prayers or reflections after the blessings and lighting, enhancing the spiritual experience of the ritual.
When lighting the menorah, the words spoken hold significant meaning and reflect the spiritual essence of the Hanukkah celebration. Traditionally, the blessings recited include praising God for the commandment of lighting the menorah, for the miracles performed for the ancestors, and, on the first night, a special blessing of gratitude for reaching this season. These blessings connect participants to the historical and religious significance of Hanukkah, emphasizing themes of faith, perseverance, and divine intervention.

In addition to the blessings, it is customary to recite the Hanerot Halalu prayer after lighting the candles, which serves as a declaration of the purpose behind the menorah lighting and a reminder of the dedication of the Hanukkah lights. Some families also incorporate songs, personal prayers, or reflections to enhance the spiritual atmosphere and foster a deeper communal experience. Understanding what to say when lighting the menorah enriches the observance and helps maintain the tradition’s integrity across generations.

Ultimately, the key takeaway is that the words spoken during the menorah lighting are not merely ritualistic but are imbued with historical reverence and spiritual significance. They serve to educate, inspire, and unite those who participate, ensuring that the story and values of Hanukkah

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.