By Rabbi Judith R. Beiner, JF&CS Community Chaplain

The central commandment for Hanukkah is to light the Hanukiah (or menorah) for eight nights, and it’s no surprise that this ritual comes with some directives. Here are a few: Hanukiyot can be made of any material and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The eight candles should be the same height and at the same level, while the ninth candle, the shammash (translation: servant)—the candle that is used to light the others—is to be placed higher or set off to the side to distinguish it from the others. When the candles are lit, they cannot be the sole source of light in the room, as their purpose isn’t functional but decorative. When we set up the candles, we place them in the Hanukiah from right to left, adding one for each successive night.

This last direction is a result of a discussion between Rabbis Hillel and Shammai, two of the major scholars of the 1st and 2nd century, who frequently debated and even disagreed on points of law and practice. Regarding the Hanukkah candles, Hillel proposed that we begin with one light on the first night and add one for each successive night. This became common practice. Hillel’s approach reflects the optimistic point of view that one small light can ignite many others (think of how we can light several candles with just one match), and that our task is to strive for goodness and justice, working to increase the light in the world.

Alternatively, Shammai proposed that we begin on the first night with 8 lights and take away one on each of the successive nights. Shammai’s practice reflected his view that the world had been created whole and perfect, but each generation is diminished with the passage of time. We are born with our full potential, with all our lives ahead to achieve it, but each passing day brings us closer to the end and serves as a reminder of what we will ultimately not accomplish. For Shammai the Hanukkiah is lit first in its full glory, and slowly loses its light until only one remains.

Hillel and Shammai’s differing opinions illustrate an important component of the rabbinic process. Majority and minority opinions were frequently issued. While the common practice might have followed a ‘majority’ ruling, following the ‘minority’ ruling was acceptable as well. Legal (and ritual) matters are often complex, and not always best served with a ‘winner-take-all’ result.

In lighting the Hanukiah, following Shammai’s approach would enable us to remember the danger of diminishing light, while Hillel’s practice emphasizes the desire for growth and for increasing the light in our word.

Whether we decrease or increase our candles, may our Hanukah celebrations inspire us to appreciate our strengths, creativity, and passions, and to use them to their fullest potential.

Chag Sameach