Hanukkah

Definition

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century BCE, following the Maccabean Revolt against Hellenistic influence. The celebration is rooted in the events surrounding the Maccabees' victory over the Seleucid Empire and highlights themes of religious freedom and perseverance. The miracle of the oil, which lasted eight days despite there being only enough for one day, is central to the observance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hanukkah lasts for eight nights, beginning on the 25th of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar, usually falling in late November to late December.
2. Each night of Hanukkah, a candle is lit on the menorah, with an additional candle added each night until all eight are lit on the final evening.
3. The holiday includes customs such as playing dreidel, a spinning top game, and eating foods fried in oil, like latkes and sufganiyot, symbolizing the miracle of the oil.
4. Hanukkah is not a major religious holiday compared to others in Judaism, but it has gained cultural significance and is celebrated widely among Jewish communities worldwide.
5. The historical context of Hanukkah reflects resistance against oppression and the desire for religious autonomy, making it a symbol of Jewish identity and faith.

Review Questions

• How did the events of the Maccabean Revolt lead to the establishment of Hanukkah as a significant celebration in Jewish culture?
  • The Maccabean Revolt was a pivotal moment in Jewish history that resulted in the successful reclaiming of Jerusalem and the rededication of the Second Temple. Following their victory against the Seleucid Empire, the Maccabees celebrated by lighting a menorah in the Temple, which was a direct connection to the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. This event laid the foundation for Hanukkah as a holiday that commemorates not only religious freedom but also resilience and faith within the Jewish community.
• Discuss how Hanukkah reflects broader themes of religious freedom and cultural identity among Jewish people throughout history.
  • Hanukkah embodies themes of religious freedom as it celebrates the victory over Hellenistic oppression and the restoration of Jewish worship. The festival serves as a reminder of past struggles faced by Jews to maintain their identity and beliefs. In modern times, Hanukkah has evolved into a celebration that emphasizes cultural pride and unity among Jewish communities globally, reinforcing their resilience against adversity while honoring their traditions.
• Evaluate how Hanukkah's observances and practices have evolved over time and their impact on contemporary Jewish identity.
  • Over time, Hanukkah's observances have transformed from a historically rooted festival into a more widespread cultural celebration that incorporates various customs and symbols. While originally focused on Temple rededication and military victory, contemporary practices such as lighting candles, sharing meals with family, and giving gifts reflect both traditional values and modern influences. This evolution highlights how Hanukkah contributes to a sense of belonging and identity among Jews today, fostering connections within families and communities while adapting to new cultural landscapes.

Related terms

Maccabean Revolt: A Jewish uprising led by the Maccabee family against the Seleucid Empire, which aimed to reclaim Jewish worship practices and independence.

Hasmonean Dynasty: The ruling dynasty established by the Maccabees after their successful revolt, which ruled Judea during a period of relative independence from foreign powers.

Menorah: A seven-branched candelabrum that is a symbol of Judaism, which is distinct from the nine-branched Hanukkah menorah used specifically during the festival.