▷ What Is Hanukkah And How Is It Celebrated?

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday celebrating the Maccabees’ rededication of the Second Temple in the year 165 BCE. The festival is marked by the lighting of a special nine-branched candelabrum – commonly known as the Hanukkah menorah – and is observed for eight days beginning on the 25th day of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar and lasting until the second day of Tevet.

Hanukkah, the celebration of the rededication of the Second Temple in 165 BCE, is one of the most widely celebrated of Jewish holidays. The eight-day festival is celebrated by practicing Jews around the world and is a time of contemplation, religious observance, and joyous celebration. On each night of Hanukkah, a special menorah, or candelabra, is lit to remind us of a special event that took place long ago. Many Jews use special Hanukkah candles to light the menorah, though some make their own from olive oil.

Throughout the eight-day period of Hanukkah, many special elements are included in its celebration and observance. During the day, prayers are recited to thank G-d for the miracles associated with Hanukkah, and special foods are eaten throughout the holiday. At night, many participate in special rituals such as lighting the menorah, singing Hanukkah songs, playing the dreidel game, and exchanging gifts.

The Hanukkah menorah is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of the festival. It has been used to symbolize religious freedom and the triumph of light over darkness. In the United States, the Hanukkah menorah is displayed outside homes to be visible to passersby. Many make a special public menorah lighting in city centers and public squares to mark the festival.

Hanukkah is a time of great joy for Jews around the world. It is a time of contemplation, religious observance and special celebration. Despite the fact that the festival takes place in winter, the spirit of Hanukkah is associated with the warmth of the spirit of freedom and rededication. The lighting of the menorah each night of Hanukkah reminds us of the miracle of purification of the holy Temple in Jerusalem two thousand years ago. In each year, the joy of Hanukkah will last until the 25th day of Kislev, and will begin again for all of us who observe this special festival.

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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.