Hanukkah is an ancient Jewish holiday celebrated to commemorate the rededication of the holy Temple in Jerusalem after its desecration by the Syrian-Greek occupiers. Though today it is celebrated all around the world, Hanukkah has its roots in approximately 200 B.C.E. In this article we will explore the origins of this centuries-old celebration.
The History of Hanukkah
The Maccabean Rebellion
Hanukkah began with the Maccabees, a Jewish family that rose up against the Syrian-Greeks who dominated their homeland in the area of Judea and had forbidden the practice of Judaism. The Maccabees successfully freed the land from the Greeks and rededicated the temple that had been the center of Jewish religious life prior to the Greek invasion.
The Miracle of the Lights
The holiday of Hanukkah celebrates the rededication of the Temple. According to the book of Maccabees, the Jews had enough oil to light the temple’s menorah for one day, but it miraculously lasted for eight days, allowing the Jews time to obtain pure oil to continue using. This miracle is symbolised each year during Hanukkah by lighting a special eight branched candelabrum —the Hanukkiah— for eight nights.
On each of the eight nights, a family member or other participant in the Hanukkah celebration will light one candle and then recite a special blessing in Hebrew. Another prayer book may also be used to say additional prayers, sing songs and read stories associated with the festival. The blessing said by the one lighting the Hanukiah is normally translated as:
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, Who has sanctified us with his commandments, and commanded us to kindle the lights of Hanukkah.
Today, Hanukkah is observed every year to remember the Macabees rebellion and celebrate the miracle of the lights. This special occasion brings many traditional activities to honor its customs and celebrates the value of religious freedom. As a reminder of the historical event that marks its founding, Hanukkah will remain part of the celebration of Jewish life and culture for many centuries to come.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.