▷ What Is Hanukkah Celebrated?

Hanukkah is an eight-day-long celebration that commemorates the Jewish victory over their enemies, the Greek-Syrians, in the 2nd century BC. It is celebrated with the traditional lighting of the nine-branched Hanukkah menorah, also known as the Chanukiah. On each night of the holiday, a new candle is lit and blessings are recited, accompanied by festive meals with traditional foods. Other important Hanukkah observances include charity, gift-giving, and games of dreidel.

ombined, these activities remind us of the miracle of Hanukkah and how the Jewish people were able to overcome great odds to preserve their religious freedom.

Hanukkah is celebrated by Jewish people around the world for eight days and nights. It begins on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev, which usually falls sometime in November or December. Hanukkah begins when each person in the family lights the first candle of the menorah on the first night.

Each night of Hanukkah, another candle is added to the menorah until all eight candles are lit and the Hanukkah holiday is complete. Hanukkah is also known as the “Festival of Lights” because of the ritual lighting of the candles of the menorah. The menorah has nine candle-holders, but one is left empty in remembrance of the eighth day when the candles burned unexpectedly for eight days.

To commemorate the miracle of the oil, a special prayer, “Blessed are you, Lord Our God, King of the Universe, who sanctifies us with His commandments and commanded us to light the Hanukkah lights.” is recited and blessings of thanks are given each night.

Besides the lighting of the candles of the menorah, other important observances during Hanukkah include gift-giving, charity, and playing traditional games such as dreidel.

By donating a portion of their Hanukkah gifts and mitzvot (good deeds), children and adults alike demonstrate the values of generosity and justice. All the activities associated with Hanukkah – the lighting of the candles, gift-giving, and charity – are examples of Jewish faith and culture that have been celebrated and passed down through generations.

In addition to commemorating the miracle of the oil, the story of Hanukkah reminds us of the importance of independence and religious freedom. As we celebrate this special holiday, we remember how the Jewish people were able to persevere against great odds to stand up for their beliefs and preserve their faith for generations to come. Whether you are a member of the Jewish faith or not, Hanukkah is a reminder that we all have the right to practice our beliefs in peace and without fear of persecution.

As we come together to celebrate Hanukkah, we reflect on the resilience of the Jewish people and honor the courage it took to win freedom. May this Hanukkah be filled with light, joy and plenty of latkes!

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