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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 in the 2nd century BCE. One of the most prominent customs associated with Hanukkah is the lighting of the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum. Each night of the eight-day holiday, a candle is lit, starting with the shamash, or “helper” candle, which is used to kindle the others. As the candles are lit, prayers are recited, and blessings are said in remembrance of the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days when there was only enough for one. The menorah is typically placed in a window or doorway to publicize the miracle and spread the light of Hanukkah to all who pass by. In addition to lighting the menorah, other traditions associated with Hanukkah include playing dreidel, spinning tops with Hebrew letters on them, eating fried foods like latkes and jelly-filled donuts, and giving and receiving gifts. Hanukkah is a joyous celebration of faith, freedom, and resilience, and the lighting of the candles serves as a reminder of the triumph of light over darkness and the power of perseverance.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an important holiday in the Jewish faith. It is celebrated for eight days and nights, commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. One of the most iconic symbols of Hanukkah is the lighting of the menorah, a special nine-branched candelabrum. Each night, a new candle is lit, starting with one candle on the first night and adding one more each night until all eight candles are lit on the final night.
The lighting of the menorah holds great significance in the Hanukkah celebration. The candles represent the miracle of a small amount of oil lasting for eight days when it should have only lasted for one day. This miracle is central to the Hanukkah story and serves as a reminder of the resilience and faith of the Jewish people. The menorah is traditionally placed in a window or doorway for all to see, symbolizing the message of hope and light in the darkness.
As the candles are lit each night, special blessings are recited, acknowledging the miracles and the significance of the holiday. Families gather around the menorah, singing songs and enjoying traditional foods like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts). The menorah serves as a focal point for the celebration, bringing warmth and light into the home during the dark winter nights. Hanukkah with candles is a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration of the enduring spirit of the Jewish faith.
