▷ What Is The History Behind Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish holiday celebrated by Jews all around the world. It is celebrated with light, food, prayers, and games. But what is the history behind Hanukkah?

Hanukkah marks the victory of a small group of Maccabees led by Judah Maccabee, over the armies of the ruling Syrian-Greeks in 164 BCE. The Jews were victorious and were able to reclaim their Temple in Jerusalem, the city of the Jews. The Syrians had made changes to the temple, such as turning it into a place to worship Greek gods, and had banned the practice of Jewish worship within the holy temple.

When the Jews were able to reclaim their temple, they found that it was only enough oil to light the Menorah, to divinely light the temple, for one day. According to Jewish folklore, the oil miraculously lasted for 8 days, and this miracle is the foundation for the Hanukkah celebration.

In celebration of the miracle, Jews all over the world celebrate Hanukkah for 8 days by lighting the Menorah, also known as the Chanukiah. Each night, an additional candle is lit until all 8 candles are lit. Every day, candles are lit in the afternoon as a reminder of the miracle.

Other customs associated with Hanukkah include playing the dreidel, a four-sided spinning top with Hebrew letters on each side. Another custom is eating fried foods, such as potato latkes and sufganiyot, which are jelly donuts, to remind of the oil that is used to light the Menorah throughout the holiday.

Hanukkah is a joyous holiday for Jews all around the world, as it celebrates the victory of the Maccabee and the miracle of the oil. Every year, Jews observe the holiday by lighting the Menorah, playing the dreidel, and indulging in delicious fried foods. Its history and traditions give Jews a sense of pride and joy, as this holiday has been celebrated for centuries.

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