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Follow Jewish TimesOil Vs. Candles
Nowadays synagogue gift shops offer Chanukah candles in a variety of colors. At Beth El, for example, there are candles with gold-painted Jewish stars, blue and white candles with tiny rhinestones, and angled candles, beyond the traditional boxes of multicolored candles. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century, according to Susan Vick, curator of the Goldsmith Museum at Chizuk Amuno Congregation, that candles became popular. Chanukiot were always lit with olive oil. And, according to most Orthodox rabbis, it is still preferable to light with olive oil.
Why?
• The original menorah in Jerusalem was lit with olive oil.
• The reason we light the chanukiah is because a pitcher of oil, enough to keep the menorah burning for one day, lasted eight days. (This also is the reason we eat foods fried in oil, like potato pancakes and doughnuts.)
• We light the menorah to spread the knowledge of the miracle, pirsumei nisah, and olive oil produces the most beautiful flame.
If you use oil, it is important to keep in mind that enough needs to be put into each glass cup to ensure it burns for at least a half-an-hour after nightfall (the appearance of three stars). The pre-made Chanukah candles are usually designed to ensure this.