Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that has been celebrated for more than 2,000 years. The holiday has its origins in the book of Maccabees, which tells the story of Judah Maccabee and his righteous struggle against the oppressive rule of a foreign king. Hanukkah is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, games and special foods, including latkes and sufganiyot. It is a time for families, friends and loved ones to come together to celebrate light and freedom.
The Jewish holiday of Hanukkah celebrates a period in history when Jews fought against a foreign ruler to reclaim their freedom and their religious identity. The holiday dates back to the time of the Maccabees, a group of Jewish warriors who, with God’s help, courageously faced their oppressors.
The conflict began when the ruler at the time, Antiochus, outlawed Jewish religious practice and ordered Greek sellers into the holy temple. This repression spurred the Maccabees into action, and on the 25th of Kislev (a Hebrew month), they were victorious. When it came time to rededicate the temple, they found the oil for the Temple Menorah had been contaminated. As a result, they lit only one day’s worth, expecting it to not last. Miraculously, it lasted for 8 days and nights until more oil could be found.
In memory of the Maccabees’ victory and the miracle of oil lasting for 8 nights, Jews around the world celebrate Hanukkah with the lighting of the menorah, singing and exchanging of gifts. Additionally, traditional Hanukkah meals including latkes, jelly filled donuts and sufganiyot can be shared with loved ones.
Hanukkah is an important Jewish holiday, a time to celebrate the freedom and identity of the Jewish people as well as experience the miracle of light. With traditional holiday foods, sharing of gifts and the lighting of the menorah, it is an appropriate time for people of all faiths to come together and appreciate the common thread of humanity that binds us together.
Related Products:
- What Is Celebrated On The Jewish Holiday Hanukkah?
- What Is The Jewish Holiday Hanukkah?
- What Is Jewish Hanukkah?
- What Is Another Name For The Jewish Holiday Of Hanukkah?
- What Is The Jewish Holiday Of Hanukkah?
- What Is The Jewish Hanukkah Candle Called?
- When Is Hanukkah On The Jewish Calendar?
- When Is The Jewish Holiday Hanukkah?
- What Is The Main Ingredient In Jewish Hanukkah Donuts?
- Why Do Jewish Celebrate Hanukkah?
- What Does The Jewish Feast Of Hanukkah Celebrate?
- What Is The Date For Hanukkah On The Jewish Calendar?
- What Event In Jewish History Does Hanukkah Celebrate?
- What Event Does The Jewish Festival Of Hanukkah Celebrate?
- How Do Jewish Celebrate Hanukkah?
Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.