We should increase our charity contributions during the days
of chanukah because they are specifically appropriate for rectifying
the defects of ones soul through charity, and especially by supporting
the needy among those who study torah.” (Kitzur Shulchan
Aruch Laws of Chanukah) The firts night, after sunset (according to some, after the
appearance of three stars) we light the Chanukah lights and make the
following three Brachos: Lehadlik Ner Shel Chanukah, Sheasah Nisim and Shehecheyanu. After lighting we
recite ”Haneros Halalu” etc." We also light the Chanukah Menorah, with
all of its Brachos, in the southern side of the Shul (where the Menorah
was lit in the Holy Temple) so as to make a public declaration of the
miracle. ”Shehecheyanu” is recited only on the first night. The
first candle that is lit is at the extreme right of the Menorah.
There is a custom to give children Chanukah Gelt as part of the process
of publicizing the miracle.
Important Numbers
