On a Hanukkah menorah, the shamash (the raised or separate “helper” candle) is lit first and then used to light the other candles.

Basic order of lighting

  • First, light the shamash , which is usually in the center or otherwise set apart from the eight main candles.
  • Use the shamash to light the Hanukkah candles; the shamash itself is not counted as one of the eight.
  • On each night, you place new candles from right to left, but you light the candles from left to right, always lighting the newest (left‑most) candle first.

First night specifically

  • On night one, there are two flames: the shamash and one Hanukkah candle placed in the far-right spot.
  • You light the shamash first, say the blessings, then use the shamash to light that single right‑most candle (the first night’s candle).

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