Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday celebrated each year during the 25-day period known as the Kislev-Tevet season, usually starting on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev. The holiday is celebrated in remembrance of the successful battle fought by the Maccabees in 165 B.C. against the Syrian Greeks who were threatening to conquer Jewish culture and religion. During Hanukkah, a special eight-day period of joyful activity is observed and various customs, including eating special foods, lighting the Hanukkah Menorah and giving gifts are a part of the holiday.
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History of Hanukkah
Hanukkah has its roots in the Jewish revolt of the Maccabees, who led a successful struggle against paganism and Syrian Greek occupation in 165BC. The word “Hanukkah” actually means “dedication”—it celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem by the Maccabees after they defeated the Greeks. At the time of the Temple’s rededication, oil was needed to light the Temple’s Menorah—the golden seven-branched candelabra. However, only one day’s worth of oil was found. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days, and it is this miracle that is celebrated each year at Hanukkah.
Observing Hanukkah
Hanukkah is celebrated with many festive activities, including lighting the Menorah, reciting traditional blessings and prayers, singing seasonal songs and playing traditional Hanukkah games—including the dreidle (spinning top), a family favorite. Special foods are also eaten on Hanukkah such as sufganiyot (jelly donuts) and latkes (potato pancakes).
Lighting the Menorah
The most prominent symbol of Hanukkah is the Chanukiah—the nine-branched Menorah. One extra branch known as the Shamash is lit each night, and then is used to light the other eight branches to form a ‘candle tree’—to represent the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days in the Temple. The Menorah is usually placed in a prominent window of a family’s home.
Giving Gifts
Hanukkah is also a time when families exchange gifts of gelt—money, usually in the form of chocolate coins. Gifting children with Hanukkah money is also a popular tradition, and one that is still honored today.
Hanukkah is celebrated as a joyous family event, with gatherings, joyful songs and traditional foods. The lights of the Menorah and the message of hope and optimism that it symbolizes is an enduring reminder that miracles are possible. The Festival of Lights is a time for reflection, and to focus on the miracle of the Maccabees’ successful struggle for freedom. Through lighting the Menorah and taking part in traditional customs, we remember not only those who fought for our freedom, but a time when a single day’s worth of oil brought the promise of eight days of light and joy.
Hanukkah is an important holiday in the Jewish calendar, a joyous time of celebration, reflection and re-dedication that brings families and friends together.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.