Is there a right—or wrong?—way to use a Menorah? This seemingly innocent topic turned into quite the lively discussion recently. Opinions were so strongly divided, it surprised me. Personally, it’s never even been a question. I was raised in a home that used the traditional method. We lit one candle per night, working up to eight total candles. Occasionally, we also used an electric bulb version, too, but that was always in addition to, rather than in place of.

Seems pretty simple, right? Well, not exactly. A friend mentioned that she lights all 8 candles the first night of Hanukkah, then reduces one at a time on the following nights.  Another lady said that every member of her family, kids included, has their own menorah and they light all of them together. A third person, who tends to be a wise guy, insisted we’re all wrong because only oil-burning menorahs truly fulfill the commandment, not just candles.

Rather confusing, indeed! According to Judaism.com, there is no general agreement and they advise asking a Rabbi if you’re in doubt. While I wouldn’t change the way I’ve always done it, I don’t have a problem with others doing something else. Each person should celebrate in their favorite way, no squabbling needed!

Readers are welcome to chime in. How many menorahs are needed, how they should be lit, etc.