Hanukkah, also referred to as “Festival of Lights,” is a Jewish holiday celebrated for eight days and nights in the middle of the winter to commemorate the rededication of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem by the Maccabees in 165 BC. It is a joyous holiday that celebrates religious freedom and inspires acts of charity and good deeds. While traditionally exclusive to Jewish culture, many Christians may be surprised to learn that they too can celebrate and gain significant lessons from the spirit of Hanukkah.
Lighting the Hannukiah: the Symbolism of Liberating Freedom
A significant part of the holiday is lighting the hannukiah, a special candelabrum with nine branches. On this nine-branched menorah, called a hanukkia, you’ll light a different candle or group of candles each night of the holiday. The center candle is used to light the other candles, one each night for eight nights.
This ritual not only holds symbolic meaning for the re-dedication of the temple, but also stands for the fight for freedom. The Maccabees fought and won against the Syrians, freeing themselves from the invaders’ control. This brave group, which was so courageous that only a few of its members survived the battle, stands for freedom and liberty for all.
In a parallel way, Christians may learn a lesson of liberation through the story of the Maccabees. Just as the Maccabees sought to restore and protect the culture of their people, Christians have a morality to restore and protect the morals and values that they hold dear.
Giving Charity and Doing Good Deeds
Another important aspect of the holiday is giving tzedakah, which is charity given in support of the poor. It is not mandatory, however many Jews donate money or food to charity at the beginning of the holiday and some take time out to visit and help the elderly or sick. It’s a time of increased generosity and giving, allowing individuals to give back to their community and to those in need.
The spirit of Hanukkah is a perfect opportunity for Christians to also practice charity and giving. Acts of charity and good deeds, such as volunteering in the community, are all an important part of Hanukkah and are in line with the values of Christianity.
Eating Traditional Hanukkah Foods
During the holiday, many Jews celebrate by eating traditional foods of the holiday. Not only do these foods hold symbolic meaning, but they also prove to be a delicious treat for all members of the family. Special foods include latkes, which are fried potato pancakes made from grated potatoes and onion crisp in oil, and sufganiyot, which are jelly donuts traditionally filled with red raspberry jam that are fried in oil.
The act of cooking and enjoying these traditional foods on the holiday can also be an opportunity for Christians to share in the Hanukkah celebration.
Hanukkah can be a time of great celebration and collective joy for all. While historically exclusive to Jewish culture, it is in fact a holiday through which Christians can gain significant lessons and teachings. From experiencing the symbolism of the Hanukkah lights and the story of the Maccabees, to giving charity and doing good deeds, to sharing traditional foods, Hanukkah can offer a joyous and meaningful experience for all those who want to celebrate and commemorate the spirit of the holiday.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.