With a rich history dating back over 2,000 years, Hanukkah is one of the most significant Jewish holidays and is observed all around the world. Every year, Hanukkah, or Chanukah, is celebrated by lighting a nine-branched candelabrum known as a menorah, spinning the dreidel, a four-sided top with a Hebrew letter on each side, as well as eating traditional goodies like potato pancakes and jelly donuts. But the big question is: When does the eight-day festival of Hanukkah begin?
When does Hanukkah start?
Hanukkah, which usually begins in November or December, usually starts on the 25th day of the Jewish calendar (Kislev) of each year, and it can last anywhere between two to nine days. Since the Jewish calendar follows a lunar cycle and is 19 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, the exact date of Hanukkah changes from year to year.
What is the Themes of Hanukkah?
Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration filled with rich tradition and symbolic meaning. The holiday celebrates the Maccabees’ successful rebellion against the Greek-Syrian empire and the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. Below are some of the key themes of Hanukkah:
- Religious freedom: Hanukkah symbolizes freedom from oppression and religious persecution.
- Light: The menorah, the nine-branched candelabrum is lit each night of Hanukkah to represent the miracle of the oil. The tiny cruse of oil was supposed to have lasted for only one night, but instead it lasted for eight.
- Unity: Hanukkah is a time to celebrate the Jewish people’s collective struggle for freedom.
- Dreidel Game: The traditional dreidel game is a part of Hanukkah celebration.
- Food: Eating fried food such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly donuts) is an integral part of Hanukkah.
In conclusion, Hanukkah is a holiday about hope, freedom, and religious unity. The eight-day holiday celebrates the Maccabees’ successful rebellion against the Greek-Syrian empire and the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. Each year, it begins on the 25th day of the Hebrew calendar, usually in November or December.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.