Today, most Hanukkah menorahs have eight branches (each holds one candle for each night of Hanukkah) plus a spot for the shamash, or the special candle that lights the others. History has given us some strict guidelines for choosing the sacred symbol that is our Hanukkah menorah, and it is important to follow these rules when choosing your family’s menorah.
Tradition tells us that the eight candles of the menorah need to be in a straight line and at the same height. The candles should be spaced evenly, none touching, so that each flame burns on its own. The shamash is allowed to be slightly higher than the other eight candles. There are many types of menorahs on the market today, including some very pretty and decorative ones that have the candles in varying shapes and at differing heights. No matter how attractive, these non-traditional menorahs do not adhere to the historic requirements regarding menorahs used to celebrate Hanukkah.
It is also important that your menorah be made of a “clean” material, such as glass or metal. Earthenware menorahs may be used, but only one time. After they have been used once, they must be discarded because they are then considered to be “unclean.”
By choosing an appropriate menorah for your family, you will help maintain the Jewish tradition of Hanukah and you’ll demonstrate respect for the symbolism of the menorah.