Lighting Candles in a High-Floor Apartment
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Question
I live on a high floor and measured the distance from the apartment window to the street, discovering it is 12 meters high. Can I light Hanukkah candles there, or am I required to light them at the building entrance in my case?
Answer
If the flame of the Hanukkah candle is higher than 11.6 meters [or according to the Minchat Baruch and the Maharsham, 9.6 meters], the lighting is above 20 amot, and the obligation is not fulfilled. However, it is possible to place colored lights or something else that attracts attention, and in this case, it can be lit even above 20 amot. Additionally, there are several other leniencies in this case [see Azmera Leshimcha, issue 117], and it is considered that there is no other option. Therefore, it is permissible to light in the window without concern, and it is preferable to lighting at the building entrance. However, if the measurement is borderline, and it is possible to lower the menorah so that it is in the lower part of the window or a low menorah and does not exceed the aforementioned measurement, it is preferable to do so.