Sephardic Hanukkah Candle Lighting: A Tradition of Light and Joy
Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is a joyous eight-day celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt. While the basic traditions of lighting the menorah are universal, Sephardic Jews have their own unique customs and practices that add a special touch to this cherished holiday. Let's delve into the beautiful world of Sephardic Hanukkah candle lighting.
Understanding Sephardic Tradition
Sephardic Jews are descendants of the Jews who lived in the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) before their expulsion in 1492. Their traditions, including Hanukkah candle lighting, have been shaped by their rich history and cultural heritage. Today, Sephardic communities can be found worldwide, each preserving and celebrating their unique traditions.
Differences in Candle Placement
One of the most noticeable differences in Sephardic Hanukkah candle lighting is the placement of the candles. Unlike Ashkenazi tradition, where the candles are placed on the right side of the menorah, Sephardic Jews place them on the left. This is because the Hebrew word for 'left,' 'smol,' has the same numerical value as the word for 'eight,' 'shmonah,' symbolizing the eight days of Hanukkah.
Sephardic Hanukkah Candle Blessings
The blessings recited during Sephardic Hanukkah candle lighting are slightly different from the Ashkenazi blessings. The first two blessings are the same for all Jews: 'Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Hanukkah light' and 'Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in those days at this time.'
The third blessing, however, varies. Sephardic Jews recite the blessing: 'Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has kept us alive, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this season.' This blessing is a reminder of the miracles that occurred during the Maccabean Revolt and the ongoing miracles in our lives today.
Candle Lighting Order
The order of candle lighting is also unique to Sephardic tradition. After reciting the blessings, the candles are lit from left to right, with the shamash (helper candle) lit first. The shamash is then used to light the other candles. This order is a reminder of the increasing light that spread throughout the Temple as the Maccabees rededicated it.
Traditional Sephardic Hanukkah Songs
After the candles are lit, Sephardic Jews often sing traditional Hanukkah songs, such as 'Maoz Tzur' and 'Mi Yimalel.' These songs are filled with historical references to the Maccabean Revolt and the miracles that occurred during that time. Singing these songs together is a powerful way to connect with the past and strengthen community bonds.
Hanukkah Gelt and Dreidels
While not exclusive to Sephardic tradition, Hanukkah gelt (money) and dreidels (spinning tops) are popular among Sephardic Jews. The gelt is often given to children as a reward for reciting the blessings or as a symbol of the miracle of the oil. Dreidels are spun, and the Hebrew letters on their sides (nun, gimmel, heh, shin) are said to stand for 'Nes Gadol Hayah Sham' - 'A Great Miracle Happened There.'
Sephardic Hanukkah Recipes
No celebration is complete without food, and Sephardic Hanukkah is no exception. Traditional Sephardic Hanukkah dishes include latkes (potato pancakes), sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts), and buñuelos (fritters). These dishes are often fried in oil to commemorate the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days. Each family may have their own unique recipes passed down through generations.
Preserving Sephardic Heritage
As Sephardic Jews continue to spread across the globe, they carry with them the rich traditions of their ancestors. The unique way they light Hanukkah candles, the blessings they recite, and the songs they sing are all testaments to their vibrant history and cultural heritage. By preserving these traditions, Sephardic Jews ensure that the light of their ancestors continues to shine brightly for generations to come.
