Oh Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah, come light the Menorah,
Let's have a PARTY; we'll all dance the hora.
The eight-day Jewish celebration known as Hanukkah, which means “dedication” in Hebrew, commemorates the rededication during the second century B.C. of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, where according to legend Jews had risen up against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt. Hanukkah begins on the 25th of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar and usually falls in November or December. Often called the Festival of Lights, the holiday is notable with the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games and gift exchanging. Hanukkah comes from the Hebrew word "Khanu" meaning "and they rested," and from the Hebrew date “Kaf Hey” which equals 25. That is why the Jewish celebrate Hanukah beginning on the 25th of the month of Kislev.
Significance of Hanukkah
According to Jewish rule, Hanukkah is not their biggest holiday. However, Hanukkah has become a lot more popular in modern practice because of its proximity to Christmas.
Since the Jewish calendar is lunar based, every year the first day of Hanukkah falls on a different day – usually sometime between late November and late December. Many Jews live in predominately Christian societies so over time Hanukkah has developed into much a festive and Christmas-like holiday. Jewish children receive one gift for each of the eight nights of the holiday – lucky kids! Jewish parents hope that by making Hanukkah extra special their young children, they won't feel left out of all the Christmas festivities that surround them.
Hanukkah Traditions
Every community has its unique Hanukkah traditions, but there are some traditions that are commonly practiced. The lighting the Hanukkah, spinning the dreidal and indulging in fried foods – yumm-o! Well, this is the season to put on the pounds, right? That’s why there is a thing called, “New Years Resolution” so you can make more of an effort to attend aerobics classes.
Lighting the Hanukkah
Every year it is customary to commemorate the miracle of the Hanukkah oil by lighting candles on a Hanukkah. The Hanukkah is lit every night for eight nights.
Spinning the dreidel
A popular Hanukkah game is spinning the dreidel, which is a four-sided top with Hebrew letters written on each side. In Hebrew the dreidel is called a "sevivon," which comes from the root "savov" and also means, "to turn."
Miracle of Oil and Gifts
Gift giving is now a common practice on Hanukkah and loved by all Jewish children.
Hanukkah celebrates the miracle of oil so therefore it is traditional to eat fried foods galore. Potato pancakes (known as latkes) and jam-filled donuts (sufganiyot) are particularly popular in many Jewish households served with applesauce. Are you salivating? Pack on the pounds!
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