Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem by the Maccabees. It is not clear who created the festival, however, most likely it was a combination of several forces.
The Maccabees, a small Jewish army, were the heroes of the Hanukkah story, having risen up against their oppressors in an inspiring triumph. They are credited with rebuilding the Temple after its desecration. It is likely that they originated the contemporary rituals and festival of Hanukkah as an expression of their joy and victory.In addition, it is believed that the oral tradition of the Jewish people was a major contributor to the Hanukkah story. Many popular Hanukkah songs, stories, and games can be credited to the oral tradition of the Jewish people, passed down from century to century.
Furthermore, it was King Antiochus IV and the Syrian-Greeks who initiated the events that led to the celebration of Hanukkah. Antiochus imposed a series of anti-Jewish decrees that ultimately led to the Maccabee victory. It is believed that all of these events heading up to the holiday are the true catalyst for Hanukkah, and perhaps, without them, the holiday would never have been established.
The cultural and political forces of the time certainly played a role in how the holiday developed and was celebrated over the centuries as well. Whether it was the traditions of the Jewish people, the Maccabees, King Antiochus, or any combination of the three, we may never know exactly who created Hanukkah.
No matter who created Hanukkah or how it came to exist, it continues to be an important celebration of faith and preservation. The joyous holiday continues to bring family and friends together to partake in unique and special rituals, liturgies, and festivities. For many, Hanukkah remains a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs and persevering even in the face of adversity.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.