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Ĥanuka candles should be similar to the candles of Temple times, in that they must consist of a wick and fuel. As this is the only requirement, any type of candle or wick may be used. Nevertheless, the higher quality of light the candle produces, the better. Some make a point of lighting wax or paraffin candles because they provide bright, aesthetic light. Others light with olive oil, because it produces a clear light and more closely commemorates the miracle of the oil. The candles must have sufficient oil or wax to stay lit for at least half an hour. Those who want to enhance the mitzva use candles that will stay lit for two hours or more.
It is preferable to use a beautiful menora. Someone who does not own one is permitted to stick wax candles onto a flat surface and light them there. It is important to ensure there is enough room between the candles so one can tell how many candles are lit.
Many people light an extra candle called a shamash. Most menoras have a holder for it. (Those who are lighting without a menora should place the shamash close to the candles.) The reason for this is that if people need to use the light, they can rely on the light from the shamash rather than from the Ĥanuka candles (whose light must not be used, as they are designated for the mitzva). True, if the room is already lit up with electricity, a shamash is not necessary. Nevertheless, many continue to light a shamash, to emphasize that the light of the Ĥanuka candles may not be used.
An electric menora should not be used, because its “candles” do not consist of a wick and fuel. If a person does not have any acceptable candles, he may use electric bulbs without reciting the blessings. Some set up large electric menoras in public spaces, which can be seen even at great distances. Even though they cannot be used to fulfill the mitzva, they do serve the purpose of publicizing the miracle.
