Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, holds profound significance in Jewish tradition, marking the victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian Greek army.
This celebration revolves around the miraculous rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and the restoration of its menorah, the lamp. The miracle lies in the discovery of a solitary vial of oil, sufficient for one day, which remarkably illuminated the Temple for eight days.
When will Hanukkah be celebrated in 2024?
In 2023, Hanukkah commences at sundown on Thursday, Dec. 7, and concludes at sundown on Friday, December 15. Next year will see the festival starting on December 25, 2024
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Rededication, commemorates the Temple's cleansing after its desecration by Syrian Greeks in 164 BCE.
Despite being a late addition to the Jewish liturgical calendar, this eight-day festivity has evolved into a beloved and joyous occasion, commonly observed in December when the days are shortest in the northern hemisphere.
Which are the Hanukkah traditions?
The celebration involves lighting the menorah, adding one candle each night, playing dreidel, and relishing special Hanukkah foods. Hanukkah parties, singing traditional songs, and gift exchanges after menorah lighting, also known as hanukkiah, are common practices.
Hanukkah foods, often deep-fried in oil, symbolize the oil used in the Temple menorah. Popular choices include latkes (potato pancakes), jelly doughnuts, bimuelos (a Sephardic delicacy), and chocolate gelt (named after the Yiddish word for money). Applesauce is a favorite latke topping.
This Festival of Lights encapsulates rich traditions, historical resonance, and festive customs, fostering warmth and joy within the Jewish community.
To partake in the spirit of Hanukkah, individuals can refer to a downloadable PDF of the Hanukkah candle blessings and explore a comprehensive prep checklist.
For those participating in the traditional Hanukkah candle lighting, the service involves saying three blessings on the first night and the first and second blessings for the subsequent seven nights.
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