Hanukkah is an eight day Jewish holiday which commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem in the 2nd century BC after its desecration by the forces of Antiochus IV Epiphanes. This festival of lights is celebrated by lighting a special nine-branched menorah, eating foods fried in oil, and exchanging gifts of money. But where did Hanukkah originate?
The Story Behind the Festival of Lights:
Hanukkah is rooted in the story of the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil. Upon regaining the sacred Jewish temple of Jerusalem in the 2nd century BC, the Maccabees only found enough pure oil to light the menorah for one night – yet the oil miraculously burned for eight nights. This is the origin of the menorah candelabra currently used to celebrate the holiday. The name “Hanukkah” is derived from the Hebrew root which means “to dedicate” and it commemorates the rededication of the temple and celebrates the restoration of Jewish worship practice and observance.
Symbols and Traditions of Hanukkah:
One of the most recognizable symbols of the holiday is the menorah, a nine-branched candelabra which is lit for 8 nights of the holiday. On the first night of Hanukkah, one candle is lit. Each night another candle is added and the candles will be lit in the exact same order until all eight candles have been lit. On the eighth and final night, all eight candles of the menorah are lit. In addition to the menorah, it is customary to consume fried foods such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (doughnuts) as they are cooked in oil symbolizing the miracle. Hanukkah also typically involves the exchange of small gifts such as money and candy.
Hanukkah is a meaningful holiday not only for members of the Jewish faith, but for many people around the world who recognize the power of the story of the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil. The advent of Hanukkah has since presented an ideal opportunity for communities of all faiths to come together, remember, celebrate, and enjoy.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.