What Is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah, also spelled Chanukah, is a Jewish holiday known as the Festival of Lights. It is celebrated for eight nights and days, usually falling in December, though the exact dates change each year because it follows the Hebrew calendar. Hanukkah commemorates a pivotal moment in Jewish history and has become one of the most widely recognized Jewish celebrations around the world.

Why Hanukkah Is Celebrated

Hanukkah marks the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd century BCE after Jewish fighters, known as the Maccabees, reclaimed it from foreign rule. According to tradition, when the temple was restored, there was only enough consecrated oil to keep the temple’s menorah lit for one day. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days, long enough to prepare a new supply. This miracle is at the heart of Hanukkah and symbolizes faith, perseverance, and hope.

Lighting the Menorah

The central ritual of Hanukkah is lighting the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum. One candle is lit on the first night, with an additional candle added each evening until all eight are glowing. The ninth candle, called the shamash, is used to light the others. Families often gather at sunset to say blessings and sing traditional songs.

Food, Games, and Traditions

Foods fried in oil, such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts), are eaten to honor the miracle of the oil. Children and adults alike play with a spinning top called a dreidel, which has Hebrew letters tied to the Hanukkah story. Gift-giving and giving gelt (money) have also become common customs.

A Season of Light and Meaning

Hanukkah is ultimately a celebration of resilience and light overcoming darkness. Through its rituals and traditions, it encourages reflection on faith, freedom, and the enduring power of hope.