Why is Hanukkah important?

The eight-day Jewish celebration known as Hanukkah or Chanukah 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.

Why is the menorah important?

Since biblical times, the seven-branched menorah has symbolized Judaism. It first appears in Exodus, as a lighting fixture within the Tabernacle, a sort of portable temple used by the Israelites during their desert wanderings. So the seven-branched menorah evolved into the most important “branding” icon of Judaism.

Why is Hanukkah important to the Jewish people?

The Importance of Hanukkah. Hanukkah is a celebration, also known as “the festival of lights.”. The holiday involves menorah lightings to commemorate the victory of the Maccabees. The Maccabean revolt was a Jewish rebellion, from approximately 167 to 160 BC, in which a small band of Jews defeated one of the mightiest empires…

What did the Maccabees do for Hanukkah?

Hanukkah celebrates the victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian Greeks in 164 BCE and the rededication of the Jewish Temple to God — a dedication that was crowned by the lighting of the Temple’s menorah. Today, several iconic Hanukkah traditions commemorate this historic moment.

How are the eight days of Hanukkah celebrated?

The process of kindling is commonly referred to as hanukiah in Hebrew. Noticeably, a candle is lit on each of the eight days, including the Shamash or the helper candle lighting the other eight candles and given distinction, e.g. different location from the others. As Jews light the candles, they usually recite blessings.

Why do people light up candles on Hanukkah?

The ceremony is observed to uphold the ideals of Judaism. It also commemorates the rededication of the second temple of Jerusalem. Jews light up candles on each of the eight days. Despite the ceremony not being mentioned in the Hebrew scriptures, it is still widely observed by most people who follow the Jewish faith.