The 36 candles on the menorah correspond to the 36 hours when Adam and Eve were bathed in The Primordial Light of creation. The Primordial Light of Creation is hidden in the 36 candles of Chanukah. Spiritually, the eight nights of Chanukah are a cumulative and progressive process through which the light of the menorah grows to reveal the inherent light of Creation. The total number of Chanukah lights over the eight days is 36 (1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8).

The Midrash teaches that this intense light needed to be removed from the universe, hidden away for a time still to be realized so that the duality of light and dark could exist and the evolution and purpose of the universe could unfold. Ever since the dimming of that Primordial Light, we yearn for it, search for it and pursue it, in our prayers, studies and meditation.

The Temple Mount in Jerusalem is one of the most powerful energy vortexes in the world. It is the same site where the Chanukah miracle would take place later in history. Interestingly enough, Chanukah is the ONLY Jewish holiday that takes place in ISRAEL, and specifically on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem!!!

According to tradition, there are 36 lofty souls, referred to as the “Lamed Vavniks,” present in every generation who sustain, nurture and guard this Hidden Light. Yet they that guard it remain hidden and unassuming as well. These 36 righteous people are sparks of that Hidden Light. Through their refined consciousness, this light, warmth and wisdom flows into and permeates the world.

Our world is filled with mysteries, and it is in the darkest months of the year, that the most luminous energy becomes available. The hidden is revealed and its radiance is accessible to all those who wish to partake and be nourished by it by the lighting of the Chanukah lights.

The Chanukah lights, unlike the Shabbat candles, may not be used for personal pleasure. “These lights are holy. We must not use them for pleasure; we may only gaze upon them” (Hanerot Halalu). For these Chanukah lights celebrate a primordial light, untouched, reminding us that there are higher forces at work. The Chanukah lights serve as antennae for holiness, drawing down the energy of the 36. We place our lit candles in the window as a beacon to all passersby to remind the world that darkness can indeed be dispelled, obscurity can be illuminated, and that it is God’s Light which will prevail in the end.