▷ What Is The History Of Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is a Jewish festival of light commemorating the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem in the late second century B.C. The holiday celebrates the miracle of a single cruse of oil, kept in the Temple, that lasted for eight days.

The History of Hanukkah

The Hanukkah story began more than two thousand years ago when King Antiochus of Syria conquered the Land of Israel, and outlawed Jewish practices. He desecrated the Holy Temple and set up a pagan shrine in the temple’s courtyard.

The Maccabees, a powerful and brave family of Jewish freedom fighters, bravely drove the Syrian army from the Land of Israel. When they reclaimed the temple, they found it stripped of its sacred vessels. The Maccabees cleansed and restored the temple and found a single vessel of oil that had been unsealed, enough oil to light the Temple’s menorah for one night only. Miraculously, the oil burned for 8 nights, until more oil could be prepared.

To commemorate this miracle, Jews annually light a 9-branch menorah called the Hanukkiyah, one candle on the first night, and two on the second night, until all nine candles are lit, on the night of the 8th day of Hanukkah. Jewish people also recite blessings and exchange gifts during this eight-day festival.

Symbols of Hanukkah

Among the symbols associated with Hanukkah are sufganiyot (doughnuts), spinning tops called dreidels, and, of course, the Hanukkiyah (nine-branched menorah). The custom of giving Hanukkah gelt (money) is a reminder of the unique nature of Hanukkah. During Hanukkah, Jews cannot offer sacrifices like on other Jewish holidays. Because giving money is considered a form of prayer, it is a much-loved custom of the holiday.

Significance of Hanukkah

For Jews around the world, Hanukkah is an opportunity to remember the importance of religious freedom and appreciate the power of minority groups to overcome subjugation and oppression. It is also a chance to reflect on the power of faith to withstand all odds. And, in remembering the brave Maccabees who fought for their rights, Hanukkah is a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is just.

The rich history of Hanukkah, and the miracles that took place to defeat the oppression of the oppressors, is a source of pride and hope for people of faith around the world. Whether they celebrate for one night or eight nights, Jews all over the world take comfort in knowing that the light of the menorah is a symbol of their endurance, strength, and faith against tyranny that has continued throughout history.

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