This Article is an excerpt from the above Sefer
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
DonateTable of Contents
Lighting in Shul:[1]
The Mitzvah:
One is to light Chanukah candles in Shul with a blessing in order to publicize the Chanukah miracle.[2]
Relighting at home:[3] One does not fulfill his obligation with the Shul’s Menorah lighting.[4] [This applies even to the person who recited the blessings and lit the Shul’s Menorah, and thus he must relight at home with the blessings.[5] Nevertheless, on the first night, he is not to repeat the blessing of Shehechiyanu unless he is lighting also on behalf of others, such as his wife and daughters.[6] Furthermore, some Poskim[7] rule that one is also not to repeat the blessing of Sheasa Nissim on any night, unless he is also lighting on behalf of others. However, one who has in mind to not be Yotzei these blessings with the recital in Shul, may repeat them at home according to all.[8] Accordingly, the congregation who hears the blessings of Shehechiyanu and Sheasa Nissim recited by the Chazan, is to explicitly have in mind to not be Yotzei.[9]]
Lighting the Menorah also by day:[10] Some have a custom to light the Shul Menorah likewise by day, after Shacharis.[11] [Also the Shamash is lit when lighting the Menorah during the day.[12] Practically, the Chabad custom is to leave the Menorah lit consecutively for 24 hours.[13] The Rebbe directed that on Zos Chanukah, the last day of Chanukah, the Menorah is to remain lit even after the leave of Chanukah, until it extinguishes on its own.[14]]
Reciting the blessings in Shul:[15]
On each day of Chanukah, the Shul Menorah is lit with the blessings [of both “Lehadlik Neir Chanukah” and “Sheasa Nissim Laavoseinu”].[16] [On the first night of Chanukah, one also recites Shehechiyanu.[17] This blessing of Shehechiyanu is not repeated at home by the person lighting, unless there are other people fulfilling their obligation with his lighting at home.[18] Furthermore, some Poskim[19] rule that one is also not to repeat the blessing of Sheasa Nissim on any night, unless he is also lighting on behalf of others. However, one who has in mind to not be Yotzei these blessings with the recital in Shul, may repeat them at home according to all.[20] Accordingly, the congregation who hears the blessings of Shehechiyanu and Sheasa Nissim recited by the Chazan, is to explicitly have in mind to not be Yotzei. The prayer of Haneiros Halalu is sung after the lighting in Shul, just as it is done at home.[21]]
Q&A May more than one Menorah be lit in a Shul with a blessing, such as if many Minyanim are taking place one after the other?[22] Only one Menorah is to be lit with a blessing per shul even if there are many Minyanim that take place there. It is to be lit by the main Minyan.
May the Menorah be lit in Shul with a blessing if a Minyan is not present? Some Poskim[23] rule a blessing may only be recited over the Shul’s Menorah lighting if there is a Minyan present during the lighting. Other Poskim[24] rule it is permitted to light the menorah with a blessing even if a Minyan is not present at that time, if people will come throughout the night and see the Menorah.[25] Practically, it is proper to have a Minyan present upon reciting the blessings.[26] Do women and children count for the Minyan? Some Poskim[27] rule that in this regard, women are to be included in the Minyan. Some[28] write that even children who have reached the age of Chinuch are included in this Minyan.
May an Avel/mourner light the Shul’s Menorah?[29] He may light the Menorah from the second night and onwards. However, on the first night of Chanukah, an Avel is not to light the Menorah, as he may not recite a public blessing of Shehechiyanu. May the blessing of Shehechiyanu be recited in Shul if one already lit candles at home and recited Shehechiyanu?[30] Yes. All the people present already lit candles and recited Shehechiyanu? If all the people present by the lighting already lit candles and recited Shehechiyanu, such as when lighting in Shul before sunset of Erev Shabbos, then some Poskim[31] rule the blessing of Shehechiyanu is not to be repeated. Other Poskim[32] however rule the blessing is to be repeated even in such a case.
May Shehechiyanu be recited on the second night in Shul if the candles were not lit in that Shul on the first night? Some Poskim[33] rule it is allowed. Other Poskim[34] rule the blessing of Shehechiyanu may not be recited. |
Who should do the lighting:
Should one try to avoid being chosen to light the Menorah in Shul? Some[35] individuals avoid lighting the Menorah in Shul due to that they do not want to recite the blessings over it and then repeat the blessings at home. Practically, one is not to suspect for their opinion, and is even initially to accept the honor to light in Shul and then relight at home with a blessing.[36]
May a child light the Shul’s Menorah?[37] A child below Bar Mitzvah is not to be given the honor of lighting the candles in Shul, even though no one is Yotzei with this lighting.[38]
Oil versus Wax candles:
Should one use candles or olive oil for the lighting in Shul? Ideally, it is a Mitzvah Min Hamuvchar to light in Shul using olive oil, just as is done at home.[39] However, many are accustomed to light using wax candles, and so was the custom by the Rebbe to light the Shul Menorah using candles of bee’s wax.
Position of the Menorah in Shul:[40]
The direction of its location:[41] The Menorah is to be placed by the southern wall of the Shul.[42] [This means as follows: In areas that are west of Jerusalem, in which the Aron faces Mizrach, the Menorah is to be set up to the right of the Aron. In areas that are east of Jerusalem, in which the Aron faces Maarav, the Menorah is to be set up to the left of the Aron. In areas that are south of Jerusalem, in which the Aron faces north, the Menorah is to be set up in the back half of the shul, to the left side of the Aron. In areas that are north of Jerusalem, in which the Aron faces south, the Menorah is to be set up in the front half of the shul, to the left of the Aron.[43]]
The direction that the branches of the Menorah should face:[44] The Menorah is to face from east to west.[45] [However, some Poskim[46] rule the Menorah is to face from north to south.[47] Each community is to follow his custom.[48] The Chabad custom is to have the Menorah face from east to west.]
Setting up the candles and how to face during the lighting:[49] One is to light the Menorah with his front facing north, and his back facing south [i.e. from behind the Menorah, between the Menorah and the wall[50]]. Thus, being that we set the candles starting from one’s right, one is to set up the candles starting from the end closest to the Aron. One then adds one more candle each night to the left of that candle, and begins lighting from the candle on the extreme left and then continues lighting towards the right. [Many[51] however are accustomed to light in front of the Menorah, with one’s front facing south, and his back facing north. Thus, being that we set up the candles starting from one’s right, one is to set up the candles starting from the end furthest from the Aron. One then adds one more candle each night to the left of that candle, and begins lighting from the candle on the extreme left and then continues lighting towards the right. Practically, the worldly custom, and so is the custom of the Rebbe’s Shul, is to follow this latter opinion.[52]]
Q&A May the Shul Menorah be higher than ten Tefachim?[53] Yes, and so is the custom. May the Shul’s Menorah be lit on a table?[54] Yes. The table is to be positioned by the southern wall of the Shul. |
When to light in Shul:[55]
Between Mincha and Maariv:[56] It is customary to light the Menorah in Shul between Mincha and Maariv [in the presence of a Minyan[57]].[58] [The custom in the Rebbe’s Shul is to light the Menorah after Kaddish Tiskabel of Mincha, prior to the prayer of Aleinu.[59]]
Erev Shabbos:[60] Some are accustomed on Erev Shabbos to light the Menorah in Shul prior to Mincha. [It is lit with a blessing, even if a Minyan is not yet present.[61]] It is not necessary for the congregation to wait until all the candles are lit, and rather as soon as one candle is lit the Chazan may begin Shemoneh Esrei.[62] [Others[63] are accustomed to light the Menorah on Erev Shabbos between Mincha and Maariv, as is usually done during the week.[64] Practically, the Chabad custom is to light the Menorah after Mincha and then return home and light the Chanukah candles and Shabbos candles.[65] It is customary to Daven an early Mincha on Erev Shabbos for this purpose.]
Motzei Shabbos:[66] On Motzei Shabbos, the Shul Chanukah candles are lit after Maariv [before Aleinu[67]], prior to Havdala.[68]
Q&A If a Minyan is Davening before Plag Hamincha, may the Menorah be lit with a blessing? The Shul’s Menorah may only be lit with a blessing from after Plag Hamincha. Thus, if there is an early Minyan of Mincha Gedola, or even Mincha Ketana but before the time of Plag Hamincha, then the candles may not be lit after Mincha until the time of Plag Hamincha arrives.[69] The custom by the Rebbe’s Minyan in 770 was to light the candles in Shul between 3:35 and 3:40, which was after Plag Hamincha.[70] Until what time at night may the Shul’s Menorah be lit?[71] One may light the Shul’s Menorah so long as there is a Minyan present and the Menorah has not yet been lit in that Shul, and the Minyan has not yet participated in another Shul’s lighting. This applies even if the entire Minyan already lit their Menorah at home and it is very late. |
- How long should the Shul’s Menorah remain lit for?
In general, we rule that the Menorah is to remain lit for at least a half hour past nightfall.[72] This applies also for the Menorah that is lit in Shul.[73] [However, it is proper for the candles to light until the next day’s lighting, if doing so does not pose a safety hazard.[74]]
Lighting the Menorah also by day:[75] Some have a custom to light the Shul Menorah likewise by day, after Shacharis.[76] [Also the Shamash is lit when lighting the Menorah during the day.[77] Practically, the Chabad custom is to leave the Menorah lit consecutively for 24 hours.[78] The Rebbe directed that on Zos Chanukah, the last day of Chanukah, the Menorah is to remain lit even after the leave of Chanukah, until it extinguishes on its own.[79]]
Q&A May the Menorah of a Shul be extinguished after it is lit, even prior to remaining lit for a half hour? Some Poskim[80] rule one may extinguish the candle upon everyone leaving the Shul, even prior to the passing of a half hour.[81] Other Poskim[82] however rule one is not to extinguish the candles until a half hour passes after nightfall.[83] Practically, if there is worry of fire or the Menorah getting stolen, one may be lenient.[84] After a half hour:[85] Once the Menorah has been lit for a half hour, it may be extinguished.
|
Moving the Menorah:[86]
One is initially to be careful not to move the Menorah from its place, even regarding the candles that are lit in Shul. The Shul’s candles are to hence be lit in their final resting area, and not moved from there for the first half hour.
| Topic | Details | Customs/Opinions |
| Mitzvah of Lighting in Shul | Light Chanukah candles in Shul with a blessing to publicize the miracle | Not Yotzei with Shul lighting; must relight at home with blessings |
| Relighting at Home | Must relight even if lit in Shul | On first night, don’t repeat Shehechiyanu unless lighting for others; some Poskim: don’t repeat Sheasa Nissim unless lighting for others |
| Congregation’s Intention | Should have in mind not to be Yotzei with Shul blessings | May repeat blessings at home if not Yotzei in Shul |
| Daytime Lighting | Some light Menorah in Shul by day after Shacharis | Chabad custom: Menorah lit for 24 hours; on Zos Chanukah, remain lit until extinguished |
| Blessings Recited in Shul | Lehadlik Neir Chanukah, Sheasa Nissim; Shehechiyanu on first night | Shehechiyanu not repeated at home unless lighting for others; some Poskim: don’t repeat Sheasa Nissim unless lighting for others |
| Haneiros Halalu | Sung after lighting in Shul | Same as at home |
| Multiple Menorahs in Shul | Only one Menorah lit with a blessing per Shul | Main Minyan lights |
| Minyan Requirement | Blessing may only be recited if Minyan present (some Poskim); others permit if people will see Menorah | Proper to have Minyan present |
| Women & Children for Minyan | Women included (some Poskim); children of Chinuch age included (some) | |
| Avel/Mourner Lighting | May light from second night onwards | Not to light on first night; may not recite public Shehechiyanu |
| Shehechiyanu if Already Lit at Home | May be recited in Shul | |
| All Present Already Lit at Home | Some Poskim: don’t repeat Shehechiyanu; others: do repeat | |
| Shehechiyanu on Second Night if Not Lit First Night | Some Poskim: allowed; others: not allowed | |
| Who Should Light | Some avoid being chosen; not to suspect their opinion | Accept honor to light in Shul and relight at home |
| Child Lighting Menorah | Child below Bar Mitzvah not to be given honor | |
| Candles vs Olive Oil | Mitzvah Min Hamuvchar to use olive oil | Many use wax candles; Rebbe used bee’s wax |
| Position of Menorah in Shul | Placed by southern wall | Location varies by direction of Aron and Jerusalem |
| Direction of Menorah Branches | Face east to west | Some Poskim: north to south; Chabad: east to west |
| How to Face During Lighting | Front facing north, back facing south (behind Menorah) | Set candles from right, starting from end closest to Aron; Rebbe’s Shul: front facing south, set candles from end furthest from Aron |
| Menorah Height | May be higher than ten Tefachim | Customary |
| Menorah on Table | May be lit on table | Table positioned by southern wall |
| When to Light in Shul | Between Mincha and Maariv, with Minyan | Rebbe’s Shul: after Kaddish Tiskabel of Mincha, before Aleinu |
| Erev Shabbos | Some light before Mincha; others between Mincha and Maariv | Chabad: after Mincha, then light at home; early Mincha customary |
| Motzei Shabbos | Lit after Maariv, before Aleinu, prior to Havdala | |
| Lighting Before Plag Hamincha | Menorah may only be lit with blessing after Plag Hamincha | Rebbe’s Minyan: between 3:35-3:40 (after Plag Hamincha) |
| How Late Can Menorah Be Lit | As long as Minyan present, Menorah not yet lit, Minyan not participated elsewhere | Even if all already lit at home, even late |
| How Long Menorah Should Remain Lit | At least half hour past nightfall | Proper to remain lit until next day’s lighting if no safety hazard; Chabad: lit 24 hours, Zos Chanukah until extinguished |
| Extinguishing Menorah | Some Poskim: may extinguish when everyone leaves, even before half hour; others: wait half hour | If worry of fire or theft, may be lenient; after half hour, may extinguish |
| Moving the Menorah | Not to move from its place initially | Lit in final resting area, not moved for first half hour |
____________________________________________________
[1] 671:7
[2] Michaber ibid; Birkeiy Yosef 671:6; Kaf Hachaim 671:71; Az Nidbaru 7:67
The reason: Three reasons are recorded behind the lighting of the Menorah in Shul: 1) One is to light the Menorah in Shul in order to publicize the Chanukah miracle, and teach them the order of the blessings. This especially applies in today’s times that most people light inside their homes. [Michaber ibid; Rivash 111; Sefer Hamanhig; brought in Orchos Chaim; Kol Bo] 2) Alternatively, a Menorah is lit in Shul in order to fulfill the Mitzvah of those who are unable to light, just as they instituted to say Kidush in Shul. [Levush 671:8; Kol Bo; Orchos Chaim; opinion in Beis Yosef 671] 3) In commemoration of the Menorah that was lit in the Temple. [Kol Bo; Hamanhig; Haeshkol; See Ramban Behalosecha; Ataz 673 in name of Rosh] The two latter reasons are not accepted in Halacha.
Other opinions: Some Poskim rule there is no known root or reason behind the lighting in Shul and one is hence not to recite a blessing upon lighting the Menorah in Shul. [Shibulei Haleket 185]
[3] Rama 671:7; Rivash 111; Levush 671:8; Beis Yosef 671; Toras Menachem 5747 2:98
[4] The reason: The public menorah lighting’s that take place are done for the purpose of publicizing the miracle and not for the sake of fulfilling the obligation of the masses, who remain obligated to light at home. The entire idea of lighting a public menorah comes from the post Talmudic custom of lighting the Menorah in a shul, of which the Poskim write that nobody fulfills their obligation. The reason for this is because the mitzvah of lighting Chanukah candles was established by the sages to be done by the entrance of one’s home or within one’s home, and lightning elsewhere does not fulfill the mitzvah, just as the mitzvah of mezuzah can only be fulfilled when attached to the door of a house. For this reason, the Rebbe stated that it is proper upon lighting the public menorah for it to be announced that nobody fulfills their obligation with this lighting, that they must return home to light.
[5] The law by a guest: See Glosses of Baruch Frankel brought in Kaf Hachaim 671:76
The law by a Yeshiva Bochur: If a Yeshiva Bochur who lives in the Yeshiva lit the candles of the Shul, it is disputed as to whether he is to still light the candles of his room with a blessing. See Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:16
[6] Zera Emes O.C. 96; Machazik Bracha 671:8; Shaareiy Teshuvah 671:7; M”B 671:45; Kaf Hachaim 671:74; See Nitei Gavriel 24:10 and footnote 24; 43:1
[7] Taharas Hamayim Mareches Ches Os Gimel; Hisorerus Teshuvah 1:103; Birchas Habayis Birchos Chanukah; Yalkut Yosef p. 325 based on Meiri Megillah 23a; Rav SZ”A, brought in Piskeiy Teshuvos 671 footnote 57; See Nitei Gavriel 24:10 and footnote 24; 43:1
[8] Igros Moshe 1:190; Birchas Habayis Neiros Chanukah 4 and footnote 7; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:14 footnote 57
[9] Birchas Habayis Neiros Chanukah 4 and footnote 7; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:14 footnote 59; Nitei Gavriel 24:10 and footnote 24; 43:1
[10] Melamed Lehoil 121; Orchos Chaim 671:13
[11] The reason: Some say the reason for this custom is to fulfill one’s obligation according to the Rambam who ruled that also by day the Menorah was lit. [Orchos Chaim 671:13]
[12] Likkutei Sichos 18:315 [printed in Shulchan Menachem 3:270]
[13] Rebbe in Shaar Halacha Uminhag 2:280; Shulchan Menachem 3:270
[14] Hiskashrus Chanukah based on oral directives given by the Rebbe in a number of years
[15] Michaber 671:7; Birkeiy Yosef 671:6; Kaf Hachaim 671:71; Az Nidbaru 7:67
Other opinions: Some Poskim rule one is not to recite a blessing upon lighting the Menorah in Shul. [Shibulei Haleket 185; Maharam Shick 174 that so was custom of Chasam Sofer; See Moadim Uzmanim 6:89]
[16] The reason: The reason blessings are recited by the Shul’s lighting, despite it being a mere custom, is because it is permitted to recite a blessing over a custom as is done by Hallel of Rosh Chodesh [and of the first night of Pesach]. [Rivash 112; Gr”a; M”B 671:44; Kaf Hachaim 671:70]
[17] M”B 671:44
[18] Zera Emes O.C. 96; Machazik Bracha 671:8; Shaareiy Teshuvah 671:7; M”B 671:45; Kaf Hachaim 671:74; See Nitei Gavriel 24:10 and footnote 24; 43:1; See Igros Moshe O.C. 1:190; Kinyan Torah 4:83
[19] Taharas Hamayim Mareches Ches Os Gimel; Hisorerus Teshuvah 1:103; Birchas Habayis Birchos Chanukah; Yalkut Yosef p. 325 based on Meiri Megillah 23a; Rav SZ”A, brought in Piskeiy Teshuvos 671 footnote 57; See Nitei Gavriel 24:10 and footnote 24; 43:1
[20] Igros Moshe 1:190; Birchas Habayis Neiros Chanukah 4 and footnote 7; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:14 footnote 57
[21] Birchas Habayis Neiros Chanukah 4 and footnote 7; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:14 footnote 59; Nitei Gavriel 24:10 and footnote 24; 43:1
[22] Nitei Gavriel 40:8; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:15
[23] Mor Uketzia 671 brought in Shaareiy Teshuvah 671:7; Machazikei Bracha 671:7; Moed Lekol Chaiy 27:33; Zivchey Tzedek 2:29; Pekudas Eliezer 48; Beis David 474; Kaf Hachaim 671:72 and 79; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:15; See Minchas Elazar 2:68; Maharshag 2:172
[24] M”A 671:10; Final ruling of Biur Halacha 671:7 “Viyesh Nohagin”
[25] The reason: As there is no source anywhere in Poskim to say that a Minyan is required at the time of the lighting and rather so long as the lighting will lead to publication of the miracle, it may be done. [Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid]
[26] Biur Halacha ibid; Luach Kolel Chabad; Hiskashrus 908; Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid
[27] Rav Poalim 2:62
[28] Yalkut Yosef p. 202, brought in Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:15
[29] Maharam Mintz 43; Taz 671:8; P”M 671 M”Z 8; Machazik Bracha 671:9; Chayeh Adam 154:17; Derech Hachaim 4; M”B 671:44; Shaareiy Teshuvah 671:7; Kaf Hachaim 671:73; See also regarding Megillah: M”B 692:1; Derech Hachaim 2; Kaf Hachaim 692:7
Other opinions: Some Poskim permit the Avel to recite Shehechiyanu even by a public lighting. [Olas Shmuel 106 that he has not seen the world be careful in this matter; Teshuvah Meahava 2:286; Mishmeres Shalom ibid; Gesher Hachaim 23:4; Beis Yitzchak Yoreh Deah 2:158; Minchas Elazar 2:32; See Nitei Gavriel 37:4; Piskeiy Teshuvos 692:6]
[30] Zera Emes 96; Machazik Bracha 671:8; Shaareiy Teshuvah 671:11; M”B 671:45; Kaf Hachaim 671:74
[31] Ben Ish Chaiy Vayeishev 11; Kaf Hachaim 671:75; Yalkut Yosef p. 202; Teshuvos Vehanhagos 2:341
[32] Mishneh Sachir 1:201; Tzitz Eliezer 13:69; Kinyan Torah 4:83; Lehoros Nassan 7:50; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:14
[33] Siach Yitzchak 336 brought in Nitei Gavriel 40:23
[34] Ben Ish Chaiy Vayeishev 11
[35] Brought in Sefer Hatanya
[36] Birkeiy Yosef 671:6; Kaf Hachaim 671:71
[37] Minchas Yitzchak 6:65; Divrei Yatziv 2:286; Shraga Hameir 2:16; Kinyan Torah 1:131; Az Nidbaru 5:37; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:11
[38] The reason: Although from the letter of the law, a child may light the Shul’s Menorah, being that no one is being Yotzei with it, nevertheless one is to abstain from doing so, as it is belittling to the congregation. [Poskim ibid]
[39] Ateres Zekeinim 673 in name of Rosh; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:11 footnote 43
[40] See Encyclopedia Talmudit Volume 16 p. 300
[41] Michaber 671:7
[42] The reason: This is in memory of the Temple Menorah which was positioned in the southern area. [Corrected version of Rama ibid; Mamar Mordechai 671:12; M”B 671:40-41; Kaf Hachaim 671:68]
[43] See Bezel Hachachma 2:50; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:13
[44] Rama 671:7; Terumos Hadeshen 104
[45] The reason: This is in memory of the Temple Menorah which was positioned from east to west. [M”B 671:42]
[46] M”A 671:9 in name of Rambam; Smag; Rivash 410; brought in M”B 671:42
[47] The reason: As, in their opinion, the Menorah in the Mikdash faced from north to south and not from east to west. [ibid]
[48] M”A ibid; M”B 671:42
[49] Mahariy Bruno 39; Chasam Sofer 186; M”B 671:43; Kaf Hachaim 671:69; See Shevet Sofer 24; Divrei Yisrael 211; Bezel Hachochma 2:50; Lehoros Nassan 7:52
[50] Mahariy Beruno ibid, brought in Kaf Hachaim ibid
[51] Kaf Hachaim ibid that so is the custom of the Sefaradim; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:13 based on Beis Yosef and that so is the custom of the world; See Poskim ibid
[52] Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid
[53] P”M 675 A”A 2; M”B 671:27; Mor Uketzia 675
[54] Derech Hachiam 4; M”B 671:40; Kaf Hachaim 671:67
[55] 671:7
[56] Rama ibid
[57] M”B 671:46
[58] The reason: This applies even according to those who are accustomed to light after nightfall, as one is to light the Shul’s Menorah when the Minyan is present, and the miracle is consequently publicized. Likewise, it is improper to delay the lighting until after Maariv, being that everyone must return home to light at that time. [M”B ibid; See Levush; Kaf Hachaim 671:77] See Zivcheiy Tzedek 2:30 regarding why according to all one may light in Shul after Pelag, before night, even though in general we only allow lighting in Pelag in a case of need.
[59] Shevach Hamoadim 7:3; See Teshuvos Vehanhagos 2:336 regarding saying it before Kaddish Tiskabel, in order so it be considered part of the communal prayers. See Piskeiy Teshuvos 681:1
[60] Rama ibid; Rashal 85; Kol Bo; Abudarham
[61] M”A 5671:10; M”B 671:47; Drashos Maharil Chanukah; Chayeh Adam 154:17; brought in Kaf Hachaim 671:78
Other opinions: Some Poskim rule one is not to recite a blessing if the Minyan is not present. [Kaf Hachaim ibid]
[62] Rama ibid; Maharil
[63] Darkei Moshe 671:5; M”B 671:47; ; Implication of Levush and Chayeh Adam
[64] The reason: This custom is followed also on Erev Shabbos, in order to publicize the miracle to the public. Nevertheless, if there is not enough time left after Mincha to light the candles, then it is certainly to be lit prior to Mincha, even if there is no one around, as the miracle will be publicized when people come to Shul for the Minyan. [ibid]
[65] Sefer Haminhagim p. 160 [English]
[66] Michaber ibid; M”B 681:3; Sefer Haminhagim p. 160 [English]
Other opinions: Some Poskim rule one is to first recite Havdalah and then light the Chanukah candles, as Havdalah is a more frequent Mitzvah and thus takes precedence. [Taz 681:1] The custom of the world is not like this opinion regarding the Shul lighting and hence one should not change the custom. [M”B ibid]
[67] So is the custom in Beis Chayeinu. [Shevach Hamoadim 7:3]
[68] The reason: As it is a Mitzvah to delay the leave of Shabbos as much as possible, as well as that the lighting of the candles contains the Mitzvah of publicizing the miracle. [M”B 681:2]
[69] Michaber 672:1 [that the earliest one can light is from Plag Hamincha]; Sichos Kodesh 1963 p. 401 “The Rebbe told Rav Shmuel Lavitin that during Chanukah one must Daven Mincha at 3:30 so the lighting will be past Plag Hamincha”; Hiskashrus 908; See Igros Kodesh 10:228; Kfar Chabad 740:76
[70] Heard from Harav Y.L. Groner; Nitei Gavriel 41:2 footnote 2; Plag Hamincha was usually at 3:30. Harav Ashkenazi writes that the candles are lit before Pelag Hamincha. Vetzaruch Iyun as to why he wrote this!
[71] Mishnas Sachir 202; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:16
[72] 672:1
[73] Implication of M”A 675:2; M”B 675:6; Shevet Halevi 8:156; See Milameid Lehoil 121; Zivcheiy Tzedek 2:30 in name of Rokeiach that learns that part of the allowance to light with a blessing after Pelag in Shul is because it will remain lit until after a half hour; P”M 675 A”A 2 says that one cannot benefit from the Shul’s Menorah just like the house Menorah, which can imply that it needs to light for a half hour [Vetzaruch Iyun, as perhaps he would hold one can extinguish and then relight it.]; See M”A 670:2 that the candles are lit until midday.
The reason: It does not state anywhere in [earlier] Poskim that the Shul candles need to remain lit for a half hour. Furthermore, since the entire purpose of the lighting in Shul is Pirsumei Nissa, it is implied that it can be extinguished once the Pirsumei Nissa has ended. Nevertheless, we light it for a half hour due to Lo Pelug. [Milameid Lehoil ibid] Furthermore, the Menorah in the Temple was lit throughout the night and the Menorah in Shul is lit in commemoration of the Temple’s Menorah, according to some opinions. Furthermore, according to some opinions, one fulfills his obligation with the Shul’s lighting and hence it should follow the same laws as any other Menorah. [Shevet Halevi ibid]
Other opinions: Some Poskim rule that it is not necessary for the Shul’s Menorah to last for a half hour after nightfall. [Shraga Hameir 6:85]
[74] Rebbe in Toras Menachem 5750 2:40 [printed in Shaar Halacha Uminhag 2:280; Shulchan Menachem 3:270]; See Poskim in Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:12 footnote 48; Chikrei Haminhagim 2:164
[75] Melamed Lehoil 121; Orchos Chaim 671:13
[76] The reason: Some say the reason for this custom is to fulfill one’s obligation according to the Rambam who ruled that also by day the Menorah was lit. [Orchos Chaim 671:13]
[77] Likkutei Sichos 18:315 [printed in Shulchan Menachem 3:270]
[78] Rebbe in Shaar Halacha Uminhag 2:280; Shulchan Menachem 3:270
[79] Hiskashrus Chanukah based on oral directives given by the Rebbe in a number of years
[80] Shraga Hameir 6:85
[81] The reason: As it does not state anywhere in [earlier] Poskim that the Shul candles need to remain lit for a half hour. Furthermore, since the entire purpose of the lighting in Shul is Pirsumei Nissa, it is implied that it can be extinguished once the Pirsumei Nissa has ended. Therefore one may be lenient to extinguish the candles even within a half hour, if there is no one left in Shul. [ibid]
[82] Shevet Halevi 8:156
[83] The reason: As the Menorah in the Temple was lit throughout the night and the Menorah in Shul is lit in commemoration of the Temple’s Menorah, according to some opinions. Furthermore, according to some opinions, one fulfills his obligation with the Shul’s lighting and hence it should follow the same laws as any other Menorah. [Shevet Halevi ibid]
[84] Shevet Halevi ibid; Piskeiy Teshuvos 671:12
[85] Melameid Lehoil 121; See Zivcheiy Tzedek 2:29; See Michaber 672:2 and Halacha 7 regarding this ruling in the house Menorah.
[86] M”A 675:2; M”B 675:6
Other opinions: Some Poskim rule one may move the Shul’s Menorah from place to place even within the half hour. [Beis Yosef, brought in M”B ibid]
Summary
Overview: It is customary to light Chanukah candles in the synagogue (Shul) with a blessing to publicize the miracle of Chanukah. This act is not meant to fulfill the personal obligation of lighting the Menorah, which must still be performed at home. Various reasons are given for this custom, including publicizing the miracle, teaching the order of blessings, and commemorating the Temple Menorah, though only the first is accepted in Halacha. Some authorities question the practice or the recitation of blessings over it.
A. The Mitzvah
The Menorah is lit in Shul with a blessing to publicly commemorate the miracle of Chanukah and educate about the proper order of blessings. This is especially relevant today when most people light inside their homes. Some opinions suggest it helps fulfill the mitzvah for those unable to light at home or commemorates the Temple Menorah, but these are not the main halachic reasons. Some authorities do not recognize a basis for the custom and advise not to recite a blessing.
Relighting at Home
Lighting the Menorah in Shul does not fulfill an individual’s obligation; everyone, including the one who lit in Shul, must relight at home with blessings. On the first night, the blessing of Shehechiyanu is not repeated unless lighting for others at home, such as family members. Some authorities also advise not to repeat the “Sheasa Nissim” blessing unless lighting for others, but if one intends not to fulfill the obligation in Shul, the blessings may be repeated at home. The congregation should explicitly intend not to fulfill their obligation with the Shul blessings.
Lighting the Menorah by Day
Some communities have a custom to light the Shul Menorah during the day, following morning prayers. The Shamash is also lit during the day. In Chabad custom, the Menorah remains lit for 24 hours, and on the last day of Chanukah (Zos Chanukah), it stays lit until it extinguishes on its own.
B. Reciting the Blessings in Shul
Blessings “Lehadlik Neir Chanukah” and “Sheasa Nissim Laavoseinu” are recited daily in Shul. “Shehechiyanu” is recited only on the first night and should not be repeated at home unless others are fulfilling their obligation with one’s home lighting. The prayer “Haneiros Halalu” is sung after lighting. Some authorities contend that blessings should not be recited in Shul, but the prevailing custom allows it as blessings are recited over customs like Hallel. If one intends not to fulfill their obligation with the Shul blessings, they may repeat them at home.
C. Who Should Light the Menorah
One should not avoid the honor of lighting the Shul Menorah due to the repetition of blessings; it is customary to accept and relight at home with a blessing. Children under Bar Mitzvah should not be chosen for this honor, as it is considered inappropriate for the congregation, even though no one fulfills their obligation with the Shul lighting.
D. Oil versus Wax Candles
Ideally, the Menorah in Shul should be lit with olive oil, as is preferred at home. However, many use wax candles, and the custom in some communities, including the Rebbe’s, is to use bee’s wax candles.
E. Position of the Menorah in Shul
The Menorah is placed by the southern wall of the Shul, in memory of the Temple Menorah’s location. The actual placement depends on the direction the Aron faces relative to Jerusalem. The branches of the Menorah should ideally face east-west, though some communities have a north-south custom. When lighting, the candles are set up starting from the right (relative to the Aron), and the lighting proceeds from left to right. The common practice, including in Chabad, is to light facing the Menorah with one’s front to the south.
F. When to Light in Shul
The Menorah is usually lit between Mincha and Maariv in the presence of a Minyan. On Erev Shabbos, some communities light before Mincha, while others maintain the usual order. On Motzei Shabbos, the Menorah is lit after Maariv and before Havdalah. If there is an early Minyan before Plag Hamincha, the Menorah should not be lit until after Plag Hamincha. The Menorah may be lit late at night as long as a Minyan is present and it hasn’t yet been lit in that Shul.
How Long Should the Shul Menorah Remain Lit?
The Menorah should remain lit for at least half an hour past nightfall, and ideally until the next day’s lighting if possible. Some opinions allow extinguishing it earlier if the congregation leaves, especially for safety or theft concerns. After a half hour, the Menorah may be extinguished.
Moving the Menorah
It is best not to move the Menorah from its place during the first half hour after lighting, ensuring it remains in its designated location during this period.
Table of Laws
Topic | Details | Customs/Opinions |
Mitzvah of Lighting in Shul | Light Chanukah candles in Shul with a blessing to publicize the miracle | Not Yotzei with Shul lighting; must relight at home with blessings |
Relighting at Home | Must relight even if lit in Shul | On first night, don’t repeat Shehechiyanu unless lighting for others; some Poskim: don’t repeat Sheasa Nissim unless lighting for others |
Congregation’s Intention | Should have in mind not to be Yotzei with Shul blessings | May repeat blessings at home if not Yotzei in Shul |
Daytime Lighting | Some light Menorah in Shul by day after Shacharis | Chabad custom: Menorah lit for 24 hours; on Zos Chanukah, remain lit until extinguished |
Blessings Recited in Shul | Lehadlik Neir Chanukah, Sheasa Nissim; Shehechiyanu on first night | Shehechiyanu not repeated at home unless lighting for others; some Poskim: don’t repeat Sheasa Nissim unless lighting for others |
Haneiros Halalu | Sung after lighting in Shul | Same as at home |
Multiple Menorahs in Shul | Only one Menorah lit with a blessing per Shul | Main Minyan lights |
Minyan Requirement | Blessing may only be recited if Minyan present (some Poskim); others permit if people will see Menorah | Proper to have Minyan present |
Women & Children for Minyan | Women included (some Poskim); children of Chinuch age included (some) |
|
Avel/Mourner Lighting | May light from second night onwards | Not to light on first night; may not recite public Shehechiyanu |
Shehechiyanu if Already Lit at Home | May be recited in Shul |
|
All Present Already Lit at Home | Some Poskim: don’t repeat Shehechiyanu; others: do repeat |
|
Shehechiyanu on Second Night if Not Lit First Night | Some Poskim: allowed; others: not allowed |
|
Who Should Light | Some avoid being chosen; not to suspect their opinion | Accept honor to light in Shul and relight at home |
Child Lighting Menorah | Child below Bar Mitzvah not to be given honor |
|
Candles vs Olive Oil | Mitzvah Min Hamuvchar to use olive oil | Many use wax candles; Rebbe used bee’s wax |
Position of Menorah in Shul | Placed by southern wall | Location varies by direction of Aron and Jerusalem |
Direction of Menorah Branches | Face east to west | Some Poskim: north to south; Chabad: east to west |
How to Face During Lighting | Front facing north, back facing south (behind Menorah) | Set candles from right, starting from end closest to Aron; Rebbe’s Shul: front facing south, set candles from end furthest from Aron |
Menorah Height | May be higher than ten Tefachim | Customary |
Menorah on Table | May be lit on table | Table positioned by southern wall |
When to Light in Shul | Between Mincha and Maariv, with Minyan | Rebbe’s Shul: after Kaddish Tiskabel of Mincha, before Aleinu |
Erev Shabbos | Some light before Mincha; others between Mincha and Maariv | Chabad: after Mincha, then light at home; early Mincha customary |
Motzei Shabbos | Lit after Maariv, before Aleinu, prior to Havdala |
|
Lighting Before Plag Hamincha | Menorah may only be lit with blessing after Plag Hamincha | Rebbe’s Minyan: between 3:35-3:40 (after Plag Hamincha) |
How Late Can Menorah Be Lit | As long as Minyan present, Menorah not yet lit, Minyan not participated elsewhere | Even if all already lit at home, even late |
How Long Menorah Should Remain Lit | At least half hour past nightfall | Proper to remain lit until next day’s lighting if no safety hazard; Chabad: lit 24 hours, Zos Chanukah until extinguished |
Extinguishing Menorah | Some Poskim: may extinguish when everyone leaves, even before half hour; others: wait half hour | If worry of fire or theft, may be lenient; after half hour, may extinguish |
Moving the Menorah | Not to move from its place initially | Lit in final resting area, not moved for first half hour |
