Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish festival that is usually celebrated each winter. For Jewish people, celebrating this holiday is a way of remembering the ancient Maccabean victory over the Syrian-Greeks over two thousand years ago. The festival features many traditional activities, including lighting a candelabra, known as a Hanukkah menorah, and exchanging gifts. In modern times, Hanukkah is still celebrated with reverence and joy, although the way in which it is celebrated has changed quite significantly.
The Eight-Day Celebration
Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration that has deep religious and cultural significance for Jewish people. On the first night, one candle is lit and a blessing is recited. This is done on successive nights until all eight candles are lit. Each night, after the last candle is lit, a formal meal is eaten which may feature special dishes, such as latkes (fried potato pancakes) or sufganiyot (round jelly doughnuts). During the eight days of Hanukkah, family and friends also exchange gifts. These can range from small trinkets or candy, to more substantial items such as books or new clothing.
The Hanukkah Menorah
The centerpiece of the holiday is the Hanukkah menorah, also known as a hannukiah. This menorah has nine branches, of which the center one is called a “shamash”. It is traditionally lit each night. The other eight candles represent the eight days of the festival and are lit in order from right to left. There are different ways of lighting the menorah. It is traditional to use olive oil, but many families now use wax candles in the menorah. The menorah should always be placed in an unobstructed window or in the doorway and should be lit at sundown each night of the holiday.
Hanukkah Music and Food
Music and food have become essential elements of a modern Hanukkah celebration. Popular Hanukkah songs such as “Maoz Tzur” and “Rock of Ages” are sung during the holiday. Delicious traditional food such as latkes and sufganiyot are also enjoyed during the festivities. In addition to these traditional foods, many Jewish families now also include foods such as Chinese take-out or Mexican dishes to the Hanukkah meal.
Hanukkah remains an important holiday for Jewish people around the world. While there are many ways to celebrate Hanukkah, the main elements remain consistent: the joyous exchange of gifts, the beauty of the Hanukkah menorah, and the joy of gathering together to eat and sing. Hanukkah is an important reminder of the resilience of the Jewish people, and of our enduring faith in God and in ourselves. It is a holiday filled with joy, hope, and celebration.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.