Hanukkah is one of the most important Jewish holidays celebrated around the world during the winter season. It is a joyous eight day celebration of thanksgiving for the miraculous victory of the Jewish people under the leadership of Judah Maccabee over the powerful Syrian army. During Hanukkah, Jews commemorate the re-dedication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem following their victory. Hanukkah is celebrated by lighting the menorah in homes and synagogues, gathering together to dance and sing traditional songs, playing games, and most importantly, eating delicious foods like latkes and donuts. But just how many days is Hanukkah celebrated?
Hanukkah is celebrated for eight nights and days, starting the 25th day of the month of Kislev on the Jewish calendar and ending on the 2nd day of the month of Tevet. Depending on the time of year, Hanukkah may occur in November or December. Because the Jewish calendar is a lunar calendar, the date of Hanukkah changes each and every year.
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The Meaning of Each Night of Hanukkah
Hanukkah is a special holiday not just because it celebrates a great Jewish triumph, but because it is celebrated over eight days, each day having its own special meaning. Every night, after sunset, the family gathers together in one room and lights a special candelabrum known as the Menorah. This is done in the presence of the Hanukkah menorah, also known as the Hanukiah. The Menorah has nine branches with a candle in each branch.
The First Night of Hanukkah
On the first night of Hanukkah, the candle is lit and the following blessing is said: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to kindle the Hanukkah lights.” Before this candle is lit, all the other candles should be placed in the Hanukiah, ready to be lit the following nights. This first candle is known as “the Servant candle” and the remaining seven candles are known as “the Festival candles.”
Each Night of Hanukkah
On each night of Hanukkah, another candle is added to the Menorah. As each candle is lit, the same blessing is recited. The oldest child will usually lead this blessing with the parent or leader of the family. After the blessing is said, the festivities of the night can begin, including playing games, telling stories, and singing traditional Hanukkah songs.
The Eighth Night of Hanukkah
The eighth night of Hanukkah is the night that all candles are lit at the same time. This is known as the Shammash candle, or the “helper” candle, and is lit each night before the blessings and the eight Festival candles. On this night, the festivities are done with more grandeur and the blessings said near the end of the night celebrate another full cycle of Hanukkah.
At the end of the eighth night, Hanukkah comes to an end until the next year. This leaves us with the joyous feeling of having shared 8 days and nights with loved ones as we celebrated the momentous victory of the Jewish people and honor the miracles that have sustained us over the years. Hanukkah is truly a holiday that is shared not only among families, but also among nations as we remember with pride and humility the miracles that have allowed us to continue our traditions through the centuries.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.