Hanukkah is an ancient Jewish festival that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after its reconquest by the Maccabees. We celebrate Hanukkah for eight days, but when was it originally created?
Origins of Hanukkah
The origin of Hanukkah can be traced back to approximately 165 BCE. According to Jewish tradition, the Maccabees fought the Seleucid Empire forces in Judah and re-conquered Jerusalem. Led by Judah Maccabee, the Maccabees succeeded in reclaiming the Second Temple and rededicating it to God. To celebrate the victory, they lit the temple’s Menorah, which miraculously burned with only one-day’s worth of oil for eight days, instead of one.
Celebrating the Miracle
The Maccabes declared the festival of Hanukkah to recognize the miracle of the oil lasting for 8 days. They also rededicated the Temple with new vessels and new rituals and declared that it would last 8 days from the 25th of Kislev. To commemorate the miracle of oil lasting 8 days, foods fried in oil, such as Latkes and Sufganiyot, are eaten on Hanukkah.
Hanukkah Traditions
Today, Hanukkah is celebrated by lighting a Menorah on each of the eight nights of the festival. This is done by adding an additional candle each night until all eight candles are burning. Prayer services are also held and a special prayer for lighting the Menorah is recited. There are also several Hanukkah customs related to presents and games such as playing with the four-sided spinning top called ‘dreidel’, and the exchange of coins called ‘gelt’.
Throughout the ages, Hanukkah has been a source of pride and spirituality for the Jewish people, celebrating the miraculous victory of the Maccabbees over the Seleucid Empire. It continues to be one of the most beloved holidays celebrated by the Jewish people, bringing them together in joy and peace.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.