Hanukkah and Christmas are two important holidays celebrated around the world. Although some similarities can be found between the two, they differ in many ways. While both holidays are celebrated annually, have religious roots, and involve gift-giving, they have a different history, involve different traditions and different significant days.
Table of Contents
History
Hanukkah
Hanukkah, also known as ‘The Festival of Lights’, is an 8-day Jewish holiday celebrated around the world. It commemorates the 2nd century BC re-dedication of the Temple of Jerusalem by Judas Maccabeus after the successful revolt of the Jewish people against the Greek-Syrian occupation in that time.
Christmas
Christmas, also known as ‘The Nativity of Jesus’ or ‘The Nativity of the Lord’, is the annual Christian commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ in 4 BC. It is celebrated every 25th of December with decorations, family gatherings, gift-giving and religious services.
Traditions
Hanukkah
The common Hanukkah tradition is the kindling of the menorah – an 8-branched candelabrum, and the one-night increase of the lights over the 8-day period. On each night, people light one additional light, and exchange small gifts or play ‘dreidel’ – a simple spinning-top game.
Christmas
The most common Christmas traditions also involve lighting candles, decoration of the Christmas tree, singing carols, Santa Claus, and exchanges of gifts from Santa Claus.
Significant days
Hanukkah
The most important day of Hanukkah is the 25th of Kislev – the Jewish month occurring prior to December. This day marks the final day of the 8 days holiday which commemorates the rededication of the Temple of Jerusalem.
Christmas
The most important day of Christmas is December 25th – the day of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth according to Christian beliefs.
In conclusion, Hanukkah and Christmas are two important holiday traditions which differ in their history, religious aspects, traditions and significant days. Although some similarities can be found between the two, understanding their differences is essential to truly appreciate each one.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.