Hanukkah

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire. The holiday lasts for eight days and nights, and it is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, special prayers, and traditional foods.

History

The story of Hanukkah dates back to the second century BCE when the Jewish people rebelled against the oppressive rule of the Seleucid king Antiochus IV. After reclaiming the Second Temple, the Jews found only enough oil to light the menorah for one day, but miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days, which is why Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days.

Celebrations

During Hanukkah, families light the menorah, adding one candle each night until all eight candles are lit. Special prayers, songs, and blessings are recited, and traditional Hanukkah foods like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts) are enjoyed. Children also play with a spinning top called a dreidel, which has Hebrew letters on its sides.

Traditions

In addition to lighting the menorah and enjoying festive meals, Hanukkah traditions include giving and receiving gifts, donating to charity, and participating in community events. Families also often gather to retell the story of Hanukkah and reflect on its message of faith, perseverance, and the triumph of light over darkness.

Study Guide

1. What is the historical significance of Hanukkah?
2. How long does Hanukkah last?
3. What is the traditional Hanukkah food?
4. What is the story behind the lighting of the menorah?
5. What are some of the traditions associated with Hanukkah?

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