Hanukkah, or the “Festival of Lights” as it is also known, is a special holiday that is celebrated by Jewish people all around the world. Hanukkah marks the victory of the Maccabees over the Greeks and rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. A central part of the celebration is lighting the menorah each night. One of the most common questions about Hanukkah is: What night does Hanukkah start?
Hanukkah begins on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev. The exact date that corresponds to this varies year to year on the Gregorian calendar. For example, in 2019, Hanukkah begins on the night of December 22 and ends on December 30.
How Does the Date of Hanukkah Change Each Year?
The Jewish calendar is based on a lunar cycle, meaning Hanukkah starts on a different date each year according to the Gregorian calendar. This is why it is important to look up the dates of Hanukkah each year to make sure the proper preparations are made.
When to Light the Menorah?
When celebrating Hanukkah, the traditional practice is to light the menorah each night. The menorah is lit shortly after sunset, and is lit from left to right. On the first night of Hanukkah, one candle is lit, representing the first day. On the second night, two candles are lit, followed by three, four, and so on.
A special candle known as the shamash, or helper, is used to light the other candles. The shamash candle is usually placed highest or to one side of the other candles. It is important to remember to light the menorah each night during Hanukkah.
Why Should We Celebrate Hanukkah?
It is important to note that although Hanukkah is often thought of as the Jewish version of Christmas, this is not entirely accurate. Hanukkah celebrates the Maccabees’ victory over the Greeks, and the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. In light of this, the central activity of Hanukkah – lighting the menorah – is a reminder of the dedication and perseverance of the Maccabees.
In addition to the lighting of the menorah, many other traditional activities are associated with Hanukkah, such as eating traditional Hanukkah foods like latkes and sufganiyot (doughnuts), playing dreidel, and giving gifts. These activities are all meant to celebrate the Maccabees’ victory and remember the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days.
In summary, Hanukkah begins on the 25th of Kislev, which corresponds to different dates each year on the Gregorian calendar. The traditional practice is to light the menorah, starting with one candle on the first night and adding more each night until the eighth. This is done each night to remember the Maccabees’ victory over the Greeks and rededication of the Temple. The other activities associated with Hanukkah, such as eating traditional Hanukkah foods, playing dreidel, and giving gifts, are also reflective of the importance of the holiday. No matter what date Hanukkah falls on, it is important for people to come together to celebrate this special holiday.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.