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Happy Hannukah!

One of the "classically" shaped menorah with the shamash higher and in the center

The shamash or shammus is the "helper candle". It is the ninth candle for the Hanukkah menorah, also known as the Hanukkiah/Chanukiah. It is lit before the prayers are said and the other candles are lit. Shemash was the ancient Babylonian sun-god.

When counting candles, one should consider it candle zero and count like some mathematicians and programmers.

8th Night of Chanukkah in Meah Shaarim

An oil burning menorah with the shamash set off the line and to one side.

The shamash is always set off from the other candles. Usually it is set off by spacing - height, a gap between it and the other candles or out of the line created by the other candles. The color of the candle used for the shamash may also be different from the other candles. This is not required; it has just become a custom for some.

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