The most significant night of Hanukkah is the eighth night — the final night of the festival.
Here’s why:
Completion of the miracle: Hanukkah celebrates the miracle of the oil lasting eight days in the rededication of the Second Temple. The eighth night marks the full duration of that miracle.
Lighting all the candles: On the eighth night, all eight candles on the menorah (plus the shamash candle) are lit, symbolizing the fullness of light and hope.
Heightened celebration: Many families consider the last night the most joyous, with extra prayers, songs, and often gift-giving.
That said, each night is meaningful, but the eighth night holds special significance as the culmination of the holiday’s themes of perseverance and light.
The most significant night of Hanukkah is the eighth night — the final night of the festival.
ReplyDeleteHere’s why:
Completion of the miracle: Hanukkah celebrates the miracle of the oil lasting eight days in the rededication of the Second Temple. The eighth night marks the full duration of that miracle.
Lighting all the candles: On the eighth night, all eight candles on the menorah (plus the shamash candle) are lit, symbolizing the fullness of light and hope.
Heightened celebration: Many families consider the last night the most joyous, with extra prayers, songs, and often gift-giving.
That said, each night is meaningful, but the eighth night holds special significance as the culmination of the holiday’s themes of perseverance and light.