Hanukkah is an important Jewish holiday that starts on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev. The Jewish people mark this day with holiday rituals and gregarious celebration, filled with the joy of enjoying different traditions and symbols with family and friends. The word Hanukkah itself has a special meaning that is often only known by a few. So what does Hanukkah mean, exactly?
Hanukkah is derived from the Hebrew word חנוכה (hănûkhâh). Translated from Aramaic, this phrase means “dedication.” In Jewish history, this celebration commemorates the re-dedication of the Holy Temple, which had previously been captured by a foreign force and – as a result of the Maccabbean revolt – was restored to Jewish rule by Judas Maccabeus and the Maccabee brothers. Most of the observances that surround Hanukkah are meant to pay tribute to this victory and to the act of re-dedicating and reclaiming the temple.
While the Jewish nation’s belief in a single God is derived from the ancient Temple, the symbols and objects associated with the holiday have their own special meaning as well. Objects such as the menorah, a candelabrum with nine branches, reminds Jews of the importance of light. Family and friends also play an important part of the festivities and can be seen by the playing of the game dreidel, which involves spinning a top inscribed with Hebrew letters, and exchanging Hanukkah gelt, or coins, with each other.
Jewish scripture also has its place in the holiday. A special prayer is said following the lighting of the candles of the menorah to express thanks for the miracle that happened during the War of the Maccabees. This prayer recognizes God’s power and protection of the Jewish people.
Hanukkah is a celebration that serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the strength of family and friends. It lives on each year as yet another special occasion for the Jewish people to enjoy – and to remember that the miracles of their faith are worth celebrating.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.