▷ What Traditions Are Celebrated During Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish festival of religious freedom and rededication, and one of the most beloved and recognized events on the Jewish calendar. It is characterized by the lighting of the Menorah, the exchange of gifts, and festive meals, as well as an array of unique rituals that have become a part of this joyous occasion. For eight days, the festivities are about spending time with family and friends, playing with dreidels, and remembering the Maccabees’ freedom of faith and the miracle of the oil.

Hanukkah dates change every year on the Hebrew calendar, but it is usually celebrated in November or December coinciding with the end of the Jewish year. While the history of Hanukkah is profound, the most common traditions that are celebrated are religious, cultural, and secular.

Table of Contents

1 Religious Traditions
- 1.1 The Lighting of the Menorah
- 1.2 The Dreidel Game
2 Cultural Traditions
3 Secular Traditions

Religious Traditions

On the first night of Hanukkah, Jews gather around the table and kindle the Menorah, a candelabra with nine branches, one for each night, which has been a symbol for the Jewish people since biblical times, celebrated through the generations. Another important and traditional Jewish ritual associated with Hanukkah is reciting the Shehecheyanu Blessing, thanking God for the momentous event of bringing us to the holiday.

The Lighting of the Menorah

The Menorah is lit every night for all eight days of Hanukkah, and according to tradition, one candle is lit each night, symbolizing the miracle of the Maccabees and their struggle for emancipation from Syrian-Greek rule. The three central candles represent the priests, the shamash (which is a higher candle used to kindle the others) and the remaining five candles represent the miracles and rededication of the Temple.

The Dreidel Game

Traditionally, during Hanukkah, the dreidel – a four-sided spinning top bearing Hebrew letters – is the perfect way to have fun with family & friends. The four letters on the dreidel stand for Nes Gadol Hayah Sham (a great miracle happened there), and each player takes turns spinning the dreidel with chocolate coins or $1 coins as a reward.

Cultural Traditions

During Hanukkah, there are many cultural traditions associated with the symbol that represent the miracle of the oil. Two of these symbols are the latkes (potato pancakes) and the sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts). Both of these dishes are fried in oil to represent the Hanukkah miracle.

Secular Traditions

Hanukkah is not just about religious rituals, it is about having fun, eating special treats, and exchanging gifts. In recent years, it has become a festive and family, oriented occasion. As for gift-giving, it is a traditional Hanukkah custom to give small presents or gelt (coins), as a remembrance of the victory of the Maccabees, and of a show of pride and appreciation for family and Jewish tradition.

Overall, Hanukkah is a joyful holiday, in which Jews around the world light the Menorah, sing traditional songs, and keep alive their ancient customs. Hanukkah is a celebration of joy, freedom, remembrance, and resilience – all of which promote a sense of hope for future generations. For eight days each year, the spirit of Hanukkah is celebrated – carrying on recognition of the miracle of the oil and the importance of religious freedom.

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