What is the name of the ninth candle on a Hanukkah menorah?

The ninth candle on a Hanukkah menorah is called the shamash, meaning “attendant” or “helper.” It is set apart from the other eight lights, often on a higher, lower, or offset branch.

The eight primary lights represent the eight nights of Hanukkah. One is lit on the first night, two on the second, and so on until all eight are burning on the final night. The shamash is used to kindle those lights, though Jewish customs differ on whether it is lit first or last.

The shamash also helps avoid using the sacred Hanukkah lights for ordinary illumination. The holiday lights are traditionally meant to publicize the miracle, not to serve as a household lamp. A common mix-up is confusing this nine-branched hanukkiah with the seven-branched menorah associated with the ancient Temple in Jerusalem.