The Fifth Hanukkah Candle—A Special One
The day of the fifth Hanukkah candle symbolizes the greatest spiritual darkness, since this day never falls on Shabbat.
The fifth candle illuminates the greatest darkness in the world. Therefore, the power of the Festival of Hanukkah is revealed precisely on this day—the day of the fifth Hanukkah candle, which symbolizes spiritual darkness.
Every Jew is a part of the Almighty, G-d's only son, and when his soul is kindled by the Holy Candle, the Jew awakens, even if he is far away—in the darkest place. This is the purpose of a Jew: wherever he may be, to spiritually illuminate even the darkest corner of our world.
Segulot of the Fifth Day of Hanukkah
1. A Festive Meal
Chasidim and followers of the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov arrange a festive evening with an abundant meal on the fifth Hanukkah candle;
2. “Hanukkah gelt” Rav Chaim Kanievsky and Rebbetzin Batsheva Kanievsky (zt”l) would always give children “Hanukkah gelt” on the fifth Hanukkah candle (Hanukkah tzedakah, accustoming children to the mitzvah of tzedakah), increasing the Light through the mitzvah.(Moshe Chaim Greenwald; from the book “The Great One of Our Generation—Rav Chaim Kanievsky”)
