The Mishna (Brachot 51b) records a disagreement between Beit Shamai and Beit Hillel as to the correct version of the blessing. According to Beit Shamai, the blessing should end with the words “Shebarah Meohr HaAish – Who created the illumination of the fire.” The sages of Beit Hillel are of the opinion that the correct wording is “Borei Meorei haAish – Who creates the illuminations of the fire,” with the word illuminations in the plural.
Our Rabbis explore the disparity between the two versions in order to understand the exact difference between illuminate, in the singular, and illuminations, in the plural. Beit Shamai are of the opinion that fire is one entity, which is why the blessing is said in the singular. However, the final conclusion of the Talmud follows the opinion of Beit Hillel, that fire is not one uniform entity. Rather, fire is comprised of different “illuminations.” As Rashi explains, the “different illuminations” are the various colors that can be seen within the flame, such as red, white and yellow. And that is why it is correct to use the plural form in the blessing.
Because we follow the opinion of Beit Hillel and say “Borei Meorei HaAish,” it is correct to use a candle that has more than one wick, to practically fulfill the word “Meorei – illuminations” in the plural (Orach Chaim 298). This is why many people have the custom to use decorative candles with multiple braids, to fulfill their obligation in the most beautiful way possible.
To be continued...
