Today is the second night of Hanukkah 2025, so you light two candles plus the shamash (helper candle).
Today’s candle count
On Monday, December 15, 2025, the menorah is lit for the second night of Hanukkah.
That means you place and light 2 Hanukkah candles, and in addition you light the shamash, for a total of 3 flames burning.
Practical note
All customs agree that the shamash is separate from the counted candles and is used to light them.
The two Hanukkah candles should be placed in the menorah from right to left, but lit starting with the newer candle first (the leftmost), using the shamash.
