The History and Significance of Hanukkah

Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrated for eight days and nights starting from the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev and continuing until the 2nd day of Tevet. It is also known as the Festival of Lights and is observed in homes by lighting traditional Hanukkah candles and engaging in activities such as playing the dreidel game. On Hanukkah, individuals and families take part in special activities, gifts, food and prayers to commemorate the triumph of the Israelites over the Seleucid Empire in the Maccabean Revolt. This victory occurred during the Second Century and is the reason why Hanukkah is celebrated.

Hanukkah is one of the most widely observed Jewish holidays and offers an opportunity to recognize the principles of faith, freedom and justice. These are values that are deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and history. Of course, the festive and upbeat mood of the holiday brings happiness and joy to all.

Symbolism of The Festival

The Menorah is the iconic symbol of Hanukkah and a central element found in celebrations of the holiday. This nine-branch candelabra is lit using an additional candle that is called the shamash. The shamash is used to light the other eight candles and then this candle is placed higher than the others. During the course of the holiday, each day an additional candle is lit and by the end of Hanukkah, all eight candles are burning brightly.

The significance of the menorah relates to the Biblical story of the Jewish people rededicating the Temple in Jerusalem. The candles also pay homage to the miraculous burning of oil, a substance that the Jewish people only had enough of to last one day. Miraculously, it burned for eight days.

Activities Related to Hanukkah

Hanukkah is celebrated in various ways and includes activities such as gelt (giving of coins), latkes (potato pancakes) and the dreidel game. Gelt is a traditional practice in which coins are given to children to highlight the importance of giving. Latkes are also a part of Hanukkah and pay tribute to the miracle of oil burning for eight days. They are fried in oil and are served as a part of traditional meals.

The dreidel game is a common activity on Hanukkah and is also a reminder of the religious persecution suffered in the past. The dreidel is a four-sided spinning top that carries Hebrew letters on each side. As the dreidel spins, the letters nun, gimel, hei and shin are revealed. Each letter represents the words “Nes Gadol Hayah Sham,” which translates to “A great miracle happened there.”

Hanukkah is a holiday full of joy and meaning. From the traditional menorah to the dreidel game, there are many activities that families and individuals can enjoy in celebration of this joyous occasion. These activities serve as a reminder of Jewish values and the importance of faith, freedom and justice.