Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight day Jewish holiday celebrated around the world to commemorate the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd century BCE. Rich in tradition and symbolism, Hanukkah has come to represent many important values and traditions of the Jewish culture, including religious freedom, knowledge, social justice, and family unity.
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What Is Hanukkah?
Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem over 2,000 years ago in the 2nd century BCE. The festival occurs over the course of 8 nights and days, and is now celebrated around the world. During Hanukkah, Jewish families enjoy special meals, exchange gifts, play games, light candles to bring in light and love, and participate in other meaningful holiday rituals.
The Story Behind Hanukkah
Hanukkah celebrates the story of the Maccabees who, in 165 BCE, revolted against the oppressive Syrian-Greek Empire. After a long and grueling battle, the Maccabees entered the Temple in Jerusalem, which had been desecrated by the Syrian-Greeks. After purifying the Temple, they re-consecrated it and rededicated it to God. To commemorate the victory, an eight-day celebration of lights was declared. It was then that the holiday of Hanukkah was born.
Symbols of The Festival of Lights
The most prominent symbol of the holiday is the nine-branched Hanukkah menorah, known in Hebrew as חַנֻכָּה (chanukkah). The nine branches represent the eight days of celebration plus one additional day of preparation for the ceremony. It is customary to add a candle each night to the menorah’s progression, starting with the shamash or “servant” candle. During Hanukkah, families also enjoy traditional treats like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts). Food fried in oil is a reminder of the miracle of the pure olive oil in the rededication ceremony.
Modern Celebration of Hanukkah
Today, Hanukkah is a time of joyous celebration with friends and family. Children receive gifts of “chanukkah gelt,” or small amounts of money, and enjoy the exchange of small presents. On the final night of the holiday, it is commonplace for people to sing traditional songs, including “Maoz Tzur” (Rock of Ages) and “Al Hanisim” (For the Miracles). The festival serves as an important reminder that even in the darkest of times, it is possible for justice and light to prevail.
Hanukkah is an incredibly meaningful and joyous holiday that signifies the importance of religious freedom, knowledge, and justice. Whether celebrated in the traditional sense or in a more contemprorary manner, Hanukkah allows families to come together, to express their love and gratitude for each other, and to remember the importance of our history and our ancestors’ struggles.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.