Hanukkah is an eight day Jewish festival celebrated around the world each year with special traditions and activities that symbolise an age-old story of struggle; of Jewish people standing up for their rights against persecution and rising up to achieve a miraculous victory. Hanukkah celebrates the Maccabees triumph of freedom over the oppression of Greek- Syrian rule. It is a time of joy and celebration, as well as a time of reflection and contemplation.
Hanukkah is a holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, after the Maccabees defeated their oppressors. The Maccabees stood up for their religious freedom and as a result, were able to establish a Jewish state that would last until the second century BCE. The word Hanukkah means “dedication” and is derived from the Hebrew word for “upholding” or “maintenance.”Conviction
At the time of the Maccabees, the Greek-Syrian rule had imposed its culture and values upon the Jewish people. The Maccabees refused to abandon their beliefs and bravely defended their people. This commitment to their faith and the pursuit of freedom from oppression is at the heart of Hanukkah.
Symbols of Hanukkah
The Menorah, or candelabrum, is perhaps the most iconic symbol of Hanukkah and its eight candles representing the eight days of the miracle. The Dreidel, a four sided spinning top, also serves as a symbol of Hanukkah and has become a favourite activity among young children. Eating foods fried in oil, such as Latkes (potato pancakes) and Sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) is also a beloved tradition to honour the holiday. Additionally, it is customary to exchange gifts, with family and friends, as a way of celebrating Hanukkah.
Continued Celebrations
Jews from all around the world celebrate Hanukkah in traditional and unique ways with song, prayer, activity and feasting. Dedication, freedom and faith are at the heart of Hanukkah and continue to be celebrated all around the world. Each year, people gather to celebrate and remember the miracle of the Maccabees who help reclaim and restore the Jewish people to their homeland.
Hanukkah stands for dedication, conviction, faith, and freedom from oppression. It is a time when Jews worldwide come together to remember the heroism of the Maccabees and to celebrate the victory of good over evil, of light over darkness. Through their unwavering tradition and commitment to one another, the Jewish people prove that with dedication and passion, faith and courage can move mountains.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.