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What is the nature of mehadrin and mehadrin min hamehadrin in Chanukah (חנוכה) lighting according to Shabbos (שבת) 21a? The shiur analyzes the fundamental machlokes between Rashi (mitzvah (מצוה) on family members) and the Rambam (רמב"ם) (mitzvah on the household), showing how each approach leads to different practical outcomes for enhanced observance levels.
This shiur provides an in-depth analysis of the Gemara (גמרא) in Shabbos (שבת) 21a regarding the mitzvah (מצוה) of Chanukah (חנוכה) lighting and its various levels of observance. The Gemara presents three approaches: the basic obligation (ner ish u'beiso - one candle per household), mehadrin (enhanced observance), and mehadrin min hamehadrin (the most enhanced level). Rabbi Zweig explores a fundamental dispute between Rashi (רש"י) and the Rambam (רמב"ם) concerning the nature of this mitzvah. Rashi interprets 'ner ish u'beiso' as one candle for a man and his family, understanding 'beiso' to mean 'bnei beiso' (members of his household). According to this view, mehadrin means lighting one candle for each family member, regardless of age, including children below bar/bas mitzvah. Rashi translates 'mehadrin' not as beautifying but as an Aramaic term meaning 'running after mitzvos' - adding the dimension of commemorating the military victory alongside the miracle of the oil.
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Shabbos 21a
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Why does the Gemara say one Shabbos protects from Amalek while two Shabboses bring redemption? The shiur applies a principle from Kiddushin about repetition changing psychology: the first time doing anything is experimental, but the second demonstrates genuine desire. True Shabbos connection with Hashem requires moving beyond spiritual curiosity to authentic internalization.
