Countdown to Chanukah 13
The blessing over the Chanukah candles has thirteen words: “Baruch Ata Hashem Elokainu Melech HaOlam Asher Kidishanu B’Mitzvotav V’Tzivanu Lihadlik Ner Chanukah.” (The text according to the Ari HaKadosh, Sha’ar HaKavanot, Inyan Chanukah page 108) Even those of us who say, “Ner Shel Chanukah,” still recite 13 words, because the Magen Avraham says in the name of the Maharshal, that “shelChanukah” is one word. (O”C 676)
One should have the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy in mind when reciting the blessing. (Pri Eitz Chaim, Sha’ar Chanukah, page 109)
The Ari does not mention the second blessing, which also has thirteen words, because it is not unique to Chanukah as it is also recited on Purim. (Machberet HaKodesh, Sha’ar Chanukah pg. 50: Siddur Rabbi Shabti, Blessings Over Chanukah Candles.)
Application:
The reason we do not say “shel Chanukah” at all (Ari) or as two separate words (Maharshal), as we do with the Shabbat candles, is because the candles are only for Chanukah and may not be used for anything else. (Kaf Hachaim 676:2)