Q. Could you add a few drops of aromatic oils to the Chanuka lights? (Would this be a hidur mitzvah or a greater persumei ness?)
A. Some contemporary Poskim have expressed their opinions in regards to using aromatic oils for Chanuka lights. Yalkut Yosef (O.H. 13 – Moadim p. 680) depends this question on the reason why we are not supposed to derive benefit from Chanuka lights. One reason mentioned in Talmud (Shabbos 22b) is to avoid making the mitzvos undignified by drawing personal pleasure or utility from them (Bizui Mitzva.) He argues that this reason would not apply in our case. However, if the grounds are to make it comparable to the lights of the Bais Hamikdosh (Rashi ibid.) it would apply and one would not be allowed the smell of the aromatic oils. He does not express a definitive ruling.
On the other extreme Bris Halevy (Rav Machfud - p. 357) permits the use of aromatic oils for Chanuka lights, even if his intention is to derive pleasure from the aroma.
Birchas Reuven Shlomo (Rav Shlesinger – 63) rules that it depends if his intention at the time of lighting with aromatic oil was to derive pleasure from the aroma, it is prohibited. However, if he used that oil simply because he did not have any other available, it is permitted.
Horav Shlomo Miller's Shlit"a opinion is similar to what he expressed in the previous question in regards to flame coloring additives. That is, the olive oil should resemble as much as possible, the one used in the Bais Hamikdosh. If it was nonetheless used, he also prohibits the intentional benefit from the fragrant aroma. However, he permits it, if the shamah light is also equally aromatic.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit"a.
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