Hanukkah is one of the most well-known and widely celebrated Jewish holidays. But often it is unclear what the Hebrew word Hanukkah actually means. The word Hanukkah derives from the Hebrew verb ‘chinukh’, which means “dedication” or “to dedicate”. This dedication is linked to the story of the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem by Jewish leaders after they re-took the city from foreign rulers.
Hanukkah Story
The story that gives Hanukkah its name began over two thousand years ago. A Greek-Syrian ruler called Antiochus conquered the ancient land of Israel and outlawed the practice of the Jewish religion. He attempted to make Jewish people worship only his own gods, but a small group of Jewish rebels fought back, led by the brave brothers Judah and Mattathias Maccabee.
This Jewish resistance and eventual victory over the Greeks is celebrated in the Hanukkah story. After reclaiming the holy city of Jerusalem, the Jewish people wanted to rededicate the Holy Temple that had been used to worship idols.
The Miracle of Hanukkah
The rededication of the Holy Temple was meant to be a joyous and holy moment, and it was celebrated with a special eight-day celebration known as Hanukkah. Part of the celebration includes lighting of the Hanukkah menorah.
The oil used to light the menorah was said to be a miracle- it was only enough to sustain the menorah for one day, yet it kept the flame burning for eight days. This miraculous story of the Hanukkah oil is celebrated to this day.
Modern Meaning of Hanukkah
Today, Hanukkah is a holiday that is celebrated for eight days. During this time, Jewish families traditionally eat fried foods such as latkes and sufganiyot to signify the miracle of the Hanukkah oil. Gifts and games are also exchanged, and the menorah is lit for each night of the holiday.
The miracle of the Holy Temple is still a major part of Jewish life and observance today. Despite the freedoms of modern life, Hanukkah is a reminder of resilience, faith, and dedication to one’s religion and culture.
In summary, the Hebrew word Hanukkah means “dedication” and is tied to the story of the Jewish resistance and rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem to the Jewish faith. It is celebrated annually as a reminder of the miraculous power and resilience of Jewish people and their culture. Families and friends gather to enjoy food, gifts, and time together in the spirit of joy and celebration.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.