Looking Forward to Hanukkah

Unlike Passover, one of Judaism’s major holy days, Hanukkah is considered a minor one in rabbinic thought. That being said, it is one of the most widely observed Jewish holidays.
Its celebration is joyful, centering on lights, gifts, games, and tasty foods, This post-biblical  festival begins on the 25th of the Hebrew month of Kislev, which this year coincides with Christmas Eve.  Hanukkah commemorates the historic struggle of the Jews against pagan forces at the time of the religious persecution by the Syrian Greeks, a struggle which proved decisive in forming the character of the Jewish people.
The great Maccabean victories eventually led to the religious freedom and national independence of the Jews, inspiring many subsequent generations to face persecution with triumphant courage.
The lighting of the candles on the eight days of Hanukkah, one on the first day and one more on each succeeding day, is connected with the miracle of the cruse of oil.
When the Hasmoneans prevailed against their heathen foe, they found in the Temple only one undefiled jug of oil, with the seal of the High Priest.
The cruse contained sufficient oil for one day’s lighting of the Temple menorah, but, miraculously, its oil burned for eight days. The following year, they designated these eight days for giving thanks and praise to God.
Hanukkah has encouraged many a small group to fight against injustice and oppression. It has been a source of inspiration to liberate the Land of Israel and establish it as an independent state.
It has also stimulated the Jews to withstand assimilation and the temptation of false gods, to champion the ideals of one’s heritage in the midst of an overwhelming majority, and to stress Jewish culture in the face of a vast culture that seeks to engulf him.
Today Hanukkah is also called the Festival of Lights, or in Hebrew Hag Ha’Urim. According to one astrological theory, Halley’s comet came very close to the earth’s atmosphere during the time of the Hanukkah story in 165 B.C.E.
The comet’s tail could be seen as a wondrous light in the sky and was quite likely seen by the Jewish people after the victory of the Maccabees.
One theory has it that because of this great light in the sky, Hanukkah has come to be known as the Festival of Lights.
Hanukkah is a time for dedication and renewal. Occurring during the darkest period of the year when the days are short, the lighting of the candles is a reminder of the spirit of those who fought for religious freedom and the bright light against darkness and despair.
May your winter celebration be festive and bright and may we all work together to increase the light in the world through sharing and deeds of kindness. May God shine His light on all of us, and may we be worthy to enjoy it. Wishing you all a happy holiday season, filled with joy, light, and peace.