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Is it preferable to use oil for my menorah instead of candles?

by Rabbi Naftali Silberberg

  

Library » Holidays » Chanukah » The Laws | Subscribe | What is RSS?

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Yes. Although it is permissible to use candles, the best way to perform the Mitzvah is by kindling the Menorah in the same fashion as it was lit in the Holy Temple - oil and wicks.

The very best way to do the mitzvah is with olive oil. After all, the oil in the Miracle of Chanukah was olive oil.1

Footnotes

  • 1. Code of Jewish Law, Orach Chaim, 673:1.

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Mitzvah
(pl. Mitzvot). A commandment from G-d. Mitzvah also means a connection, for a Jew connects with G–d through fulfilling His commandments.
Chanukah
An eight day mid-winter holiday marking: 1) The miraculous defeat of the mighty Syrian-Greek armies by the undermanned Maccabis in the year 140 BCE. 2) Upon their victory, the oil in the Menorah, sufficient fuel for one night only, burned for eight days and nights.
Menorah
Candelabra. Usually a reference to the nine-branched candelabra kindled on the holiday of Chanukah.
Temple
1. Usually a reference to the Holy Temple which was/will be situated in Jerusalem. 1st Temple was built in 825 BCE and was destroyed in 423 BCE. The 2nd Temple was built in 350 BCE and was destroyed in 70 CE. The 3rd Temple will be built by the Messiah. 2. A synagogue.