We continue with our Halachos of Chanukah series. The following questions and answers are culled from Derech Sicha (Teshuvos of HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita).
a. In the HaNeiros Halalu, we recite, “V’Chol Shemonas Yemai Chanukah…”--and on all eight days of Chanukah, the Neiros are holy, and we cannot use them for any another purpose. Why do we need to emphasize that this restriction on use is true on all eight days? After all, Chanukah is eight days. Why would any day be different? Is it because I would think that the first day is different because it celebrates the miracle that oil burns in the first place, as there was a container of oil that was found for the first day?
Answer: One can also suggest that the first day celebrates the miraculous victory in war, and that, nevertheless, even on the first day one may not use the neiros of Chanukah for any other purpose.
b. Is it better to prepare your own wicks, or to purchase the pre-packaged wicks? If you buy the pre-packaged wicks, you can save ten minutes or more in preparation time!
Answer: For someone who would otherwise be learning, he should buy the pre-packaged wicks. If not, let him spend the time on the Mitzvah!
c. If one arrives home late, is it permissible to wake up his parents, so that he can light candles in the presence of his household?
Answer: It depends upon whether they (or either one of them) would appreciate it. If you are in doubt, do not wake them up.
d. What is preferable: To purchase a Menorah which is made of silver but is not so aesthetically pleasing, or to purchase one made of a cheaper metal, but which appears nicer?
Answer: The silver menorah is preferable.
e. Did they light the Chanukah menorah in the Bais HaMikdosh as we do in our Shuls?
Answer: They could not do so in the Azara, for that would be a question of Baal Tosif, but in a place(s) where they slept and ate (in the Lishkos--the side chambers), it would appear that they did light--Pirsumei Nisa even in the Bais HaMikdosh!
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