Hanukkah

Hanukkah is a beautiful Jewish holiday steeped in faith and ancient history. Nationalities celebrate it annually, paying tribute to their ancestors and events that happened many years ago. Learn more about it and join the celebrations!

History

Hanukkah lasts for 8 days. The roots of the holiday can be traced back to the 2nd century BC. After the reign of Alexander the Great, the holy lands were seized by the Seleucids, and their leader, the dictator Antiochus Epiphanes, hated Jewish values. He forbade observing the traditions to which the people were accustomed: the study of the Torah, the circumcision of infants, the celebration of Shabbat … Gradually, the Jews rebelled, an uprising took place. They managed to overcome aggression, but many temples and holy places were destroyed.

The Jews, tired of the bloody war, climbed the Temple Mount. They were victorious and wanted to consecrate the Jerusalem Temple. His face brought tears – only a jug of lamp oil remained intact. Surprisingly, there was so little substance that burning would be enough for one day, but miraculously it shone for 8 days. The believers were amazed, but during this time they managed to clear the place and prepare fresh oil. The event was the beginning of the holiday!

Interesting facts

Amazing moments about the celebration:

• not mentioned in the Torah – the holy book;
• today it is considered one of the main ones for Jews, but this was not always the case;
• in 2013, Hanukkah coincided with Thanksgiving – because of this, many jokes arose;
• on each day of the celebration, a new candle is lit;
• today it is not customary to sing songs or hymns, but there are exceptions for children;
• in 1999, a stamp was issued in the United States to commemorate the celebration of good relations between peoples.

How to celebrate

It is customary in Hanukkah to give gifts – this happens on each of the eight days in such a way that their value increases. Mostly children are gifted. Before the date, they must clean the house, cook dishes in oil, and decorate the interior. It is believed that today every person should be kind, hospitable, then good luck will accompany until the next celebration.

When is Hanukkah celebrated in 2022?