If using those candles, then light after nightfall every night (aside from Friday-see below). Note: The standard Chanukah candles last only approximately 30 minutes. In either case, the menorah must contain enough fuel at the time of the lighting to burn until 30 minutes after nightfall. The custom of many communities (and such is the Chabad-Lubavitch custom) is to light the menorah shortly after sunset other communities light it at nightfall. The Chanukah lights are kindled in the evening preceding each of the eight days of Chanukah. On the following night add a second light to the left of the first, and kindle the new light first, proceeding from left to right, and so on each night. On the first night of Chanukah, one light is kindled on the right side of the menorah. The shamash-the “servant” candle that kindles the other lights-should be placed apart from the rest (higher, outside the row, etc.). The lamps or candles should be arranged in a straight row, and should be of equal height. (“Nightfall” is the point at which it grows dark enough for three average-sized stars to be visible-about 20–30 minutes after sunset, depending on the location.) The lamps or candles must contain enough fuel, at the time of the lighting, to burn until half an hour after nightfall. (If circumstances do not allow the use of an open flame, a proper rabbinical authority should be consulted.) The most ideal way to fulfill the mitzvah is with cotton wicks in olive oil, or beeswax candles paraffin candles or other types of candles or lamps are also acceptable, but not gas lights or electric lights. The Chanukah lights should consist of lamps or candles-i.e., a flammable fuel that feeds a visible flame via a wick. Make sure the menorah is on a sturdy, fireproof surface that is out of the reach of children and not near curtains or other flammable materials ( more safety tips). (If placed on the windowsill, it should be no higher than 20 cubits-about 29 feet-above street level.) Others place it on a windowsill facing a public thoroughfare. Many have the custom to place the menorah in a doorway opposite the mezuzah (such is the custom of Chabad-Lubavitch), so that the two mitzvot of mezuzah and Chanukah surround the person.
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