Menorah lighting

Menorah lighting is a central Jewish tradition during Hanukkah, commemorating the miracle of the oil. The Menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum, is lit each night for eight nights. Each night, an additional candle, called the shamash (helper candle), is used to light the other candles, starting with one on the first night and increasing by one each subsequent night. The lighting symbolizes resilience, faith, and the miracle of the oil lasting eight days, and is often accompanied by prayers, singing, and community gatherings, emphasizing themes of perseverance and hope.