Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish holiday that commemorates the successful Maccabean revolt of 2nd century BCE, when a small, courageous Jewish army was able to reclaim Jerusalem. This successful revolt established the Hasmonean dynasty and formed the basis of the modern state of Israel. Hanukkah continues to be a powerful reminder of the Jewish people’s connection to their ancient homeland and of their perseverance in the face of oppression and persecution.
The Hanukkah story begins in the year 167 BCE in Jerusalem under the rule of the Seleucid Empire, a powerful Greek kingdom spanning parts of Europe and southwest Asia. Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Seleucid king of Syria, and other non-Jewish leaders attempted to Hellenize the entire region—that is, to impose Greek culture and conquer Judaism, both of which threatened the Jewish way of life. It was at this moment that a small group of Jewish warriors, led by Judas Maccabaeus, rose up to challenge their oppressive rule. Defying immense odds, the Maccabees were ultimately successful in reclaiming the Temple in Jerusalem and driving out the enemy.
To celebrate their victory, the Maccabees were determined to restore the Temple to its previous religious glory. They cleared away debris and cleansed the altar, and were left with only a single cruse of fully sealed—yet undefiled—oil sufficient to light the eternal flame for one day. Miraculously, however, the single cruse of oil lasted for eight days, until a fresh supply could be procured. To commemorate this miracle, the Maccabees established the first observance of Hanukkah.
The eight-day holiday is celebrated annually by Jews around the world with the lighting of the Hanukkah menorah, playing of the traditional game of dreidel, and eating of special Hanukkah treats like latkes and sufganiyot.
Today, Hanukkah is a powerful reminder of the perseverance of the Jewish people in the face of adversity. It is an eight-day celebration of religious freedom and resilience, a celebration of the potential of humans to speak out against unchecked power and oppression, and a celebration of the uncompromising faith of the Jewish people and their commitment to their religion. Hanukkah is a meaningful holiday for Jews all over the world, and a reminder of the strength and courage of the Maccabees so many years ago.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.