The Last Day of Hanukkah is an important and joyous day for Jewish people all around the world. It is the final day of the eight-day holiday that is celebrated to commemorate the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem in the second century. On the last day of Hanukkah, Jewish families light all eight candles of the hanukkiyah (Hanukkah menorah) and partake in gifts, games, and traditional holiday foods. But what is the last day of Hanukkah called?
The last day of Hanukkah is known as Zot Hanukkah, which literally means “This is the Festival [of] Hanukkah.” It is also sometimes referred to as “Getting Ready for a New Light,” which signifies the joy and anticipation that come with the arrival of this special day.
The Meaning Behind Zot Hanukkah
Zot Hanukkah marks the end of the Hanukkah celebration and emphasizes the underlying theme of the holiday — the triumph of light and religious freedom over darkness and persecution. The day is celebrated by lighting all eight candles of the hanukkiyah to symbolize the “everlasting miracle” of the temple’s rededication. This is an opportunity for Jewish people to express their gratitude for God’s continuing protection and to show their commitment to living a life that is in alignment with Jewish tradition.
Celebrating the Last Day of Hanukkah
The way in which Zot Hanukkah is celebrated varies from family to family, but in most households, the day begins with the lighting of all eight candles of the hanukkiyah. Again, this signifies the “ever-burning miracle” of the temple’s rededication. A prayer is also said, thanking God for the miracle of Hanukkah and for his protection over the Jewish people.
Traditional holiday foods are eaten, and family members exchange gifts. Fun activities and games are played as well, such as playing with a dreidel or spinning the Top, a toy that originated in Germany. Singing traditional Hebrew songs is another way that families come together and celebrate the last day of Hanukkah.
The Significance of Zot Hanukkah
Regardless of the individual practices and activities that families take part in, the act of lighting all eight Hanukkah candles on the last day of the holiday is incredibly meaningful and symbolic. It is an act of faith and hope that God will continue to provide protection and peace to all the Jewish people. In addition, it is a reminder of the values of freedom, justice, and perseverance that the Jewish people uphold.
The Last Day of Hanukkah is an important day in the Jewish calendar and is celebrated with much joy and gratitude by Jewish families around the world. It is marked by the recitation of prayers, the enjoyment of traditional holiday foods, and the exchange of gifts. Most importantly, however, it is a reminder of the courage, faith, and determination of the Jewish people and their ability to overcome great odds and still carry on the light of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.