Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated Jewish holidays around the world. Held annually for eight days, typically in December, Hanukkah commemorates a historical event that occurred more than two thousand years ago, symbolizing the triumph of religious freedom, resilience, and the miracle of light.  Though it is not as significant as some other Jewish holidays in terms of religious observance, Hanukkah has become a time of family celebration, symbolizing hope, endurance, and the Jewish spirit.

The historical background
The story of Hanukkah dates back to the 2nd century BCE, during a period when Judea was under the control of the Seleucid Empire, a Hellenistic kingdom that had arisen after the death of Alexander the Great.  The Seleucid King Antiochus IV Epiphanes sought to impose Greek culture and religion on the Jewish population.  He outlawed Judaism, desecrated the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, and even set up an altar to the Greek god Zeus within the Temple. This forced the Jews into a state of religious persecution, and many were forced to abandon their faith or face severe punishment.

In response to this oppression, a group of Jewish rebels known as the Maccabees, led by Judah Maccabee, rose up against the Seleucids in a battle for religious freedom.  Against all odds, the Maccabees managed to defeat the much larger and better-equipped Seleucid army.  They reclaimed Jerusalem and the Temple in 164 BCE.

The miracle of the oil
After the Maccabees liberated the Temple, they sought to rededicate it to God.  One of the first tasks was to relight the Menorah, a then seven- branched candelabrum that symbolized the eternal light of God.  However, when the Maccabees searched for oil to light the Menorah, they found only a small jar of consecrated olive oil—enough to last for just one day.

According to Jewish tradition, a miracle occurred.  Despite the small amount of oil, the Menorah burned for eight days, allowing enough time for the priests to prepare and consecrate more oil for the Temple.  This miraculous event is the basis for the eight-day celebration of Hanukkah, which is also known as the Festival of Lights.

The name "Hanukkah"
The name Hanukkah comes from the Hebrew word "chanukah," which means "dedication" or "consecration."  It refers to the rededication of the Temple following its purification by the Maccabees.  Hanukkah is sometimes also called the "Festival of Lights" because of the central custom of lighting the menorah to celebrate the miracle of the oil.

Hanukkah traditions
Over time, the celebration of Hanukkah evolved into a festival marked by joyous customs, family gatherings, and the sharing of food and gifts.  One of the most important traditions is the lighting of the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum, which represents the original menorah in the Temple.  On each of the eight nights of Hanukkah, a new candle is lit, with the ninth candle, called the shamash, used to light the others.

Foods fried in oil, such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts), are popular during Hanukkah, symbolizing the miracle of the oil.  The spinning of the dreidel, a four-sided top, is another well-known tradition, particularly among children.  The dreidel game is typically played with coins, chocolate gelt (coins), or other small treats, and is believed to have originated as a way for Jewish children to continue studying the Torah secretly during times of religious oppression.

Gift-giving, although not part of the original religious observance, has become a widespread custom, especially in modern times.  This tradition has been influenced in part by the proximity of Hanukkah to Christmas, which is widely celebrated around the world.

Hanukkah in modern times
Today, Hanukkah is celebrated by Jews worldwide, with festivities that vary according to regional customs and personal preferences.  The holiday serves not only as a reminder of Jewish history and the struggle for religious freedom but also as an occasion for Jewish families to come together in a spirit of unity and joy.  It has become a celebration of Jewish identity, resilience, and continuity, particularly in the face of adversity.

While Hanukkah may not carry the same level of religious significance as holidays like Yom Kippur or Passover, it has grown in cultural importance, especially in Jewish communities outside of Israel.  In recent decades, Hanukkah has become more visible in the public sphere, partly due to the increasing recognition of Jewish culture and religion worldwide.  The lighting of public menorahs, concerts, and Hanukkah events are held in cities across the globe, helping to spread awareness and celebrate Jewish heritage.

Hanukkah is a holiday steeped in history and tradition.  Its story—of the Maccabees' victory and the miracle of the oil—has resonated for over two thousand years, serving as a powerful symbol of resilience, religious freedom, and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people.  Today, Hanukkah continues to be a time for families to gather, light the menorah, share meals, play games, and reflect on the values of faith, hope, and perseverance.  Through its traditions and rituals, Hanukkah reminds us all of the power of light in times of darkness and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs.

~Article by Justin Daniels
~Photo: Adobe Stock / By AbdulRahmanUzair