▷ Why Is Hanukkah Called The Festival Of Lights?

Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish festival celebrated around the world, characterized by the kindling of the menorah, also known as the “Festival of Lights”. The festival is celebrated in remembrance of the miracle of oil that is believed to have taken place when the Second Temple was rededicated after a successful revolt by the Maccabees against Syrian Greeks who wanted to impose their Hellenist religious beliefs on the Jewish people. Even today, Hanukkah is all about reflecting on renewal, hope and light.

The Story Behind Hanukkah

The celebration of Hanukkah is derived from an event that took place during the second century BCE-the Greeks had conquered the Second Temple in Jerusalem, outlawed traditional Jewish practices, and tried to force the Jews to accept the Greek gods and follow Greek customs. Under the leadership of Judas Maccabeus, the Jews revolted. During the two-year revolt, the Maccabees recaptured the Temple and rededicated it to God.

When the Jews reentered the Temple, they wanted to light the eight-branch menorah (or candelabrum), something Judaism holds as one of the most sacred rituals. But, there was only enough oil to last for one night, yet it miraculously lasted for eight nights, giving enough time for priests to prepare new oil. This is why Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days; it is a commemoration of when the oil that would have lasted for only one night miraculously lasted for eight full nights.

Symbolic Meaning

In the Jewish calendar, Hanukkah is known as the “Festival of Lights”. The main point of the festival is to help Jews remember the rededication of the Second Temple. It is also held to remember the legend of the small flask of oil that lasted for eight days, allowing for the continued lighting of the menorah. The miracle of the oil is a testament to the faithfulness of God in terms of providing for His people, and thus is remembered and celebrated during the eight days of Hanukkah.

The holiday is marked by performing special prayers and lighting a menorah for eight nights, with a candle burning on the menorah for each of the nights. Watching the days pass with the adding of one more candle each night, Jews celebrate God’s strength and trust in Him as it was He who enabled the small flask of oil to burn for so long.

Moreover, Hanukkah is seen as a symbol of renewal, hope and strength in the face of an oftentimes oppressive and murderous world. Throughout history Jews have faced numerous attempts of genocide and terror. In spite of this, they manage to persevere and maintain their faith. Hanukkah is like a reminder that even in the most desperate of situations, when there seem to be no clear solutions, even a little faith, hope and strength can go a long way.

In conclusion, Hanukkah is a great way to give thanks for the miracle of lighting the menorah and rededicating the Temple so many years ago. Furthermore, Jews celebrate its message of renewed strength, hope and faith in the face of difficult times. Particularly in these difficult times, perhaps we can find joy and hope in both remembering the past and looking ahead to a brighter future.

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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.