Today, we invite you to join us in a series that explores the holiday traditions of December, starting with Hanukkah. From December 7 to December 15, Jewish communities around the globe come together to celebrate the Festival of Lights. In this post, we will explore the history, customs, and joyous festivities that define Hanukkah.

1. The Origin of Hanukkah

Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, has its roots in a historical event that took place over 2,000 years ago. The story begins with the Maccabees, a group of Jewish warriors who rebelled against the oppressive rule of King Antiochus IV in the second century BCE. The Maccabees successfully reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and sought to rededicate it to the worship of their one true God.

2. The Miracle of the Oil

One of the most fascinating aspects of Hanukkah is the miracle of the oil. According to tradition, when the Maccabees reclaimed the Holy Temple, they found only a single cruse of oil, enough for one day. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days, allowing them to complete the rededication ceremony. This miraculous event is at the heart of the eight nights of Hanukkah, during which candles are lit on the menorah.

3. Lighting the Menorah

A central tradition during Hanukkah is the lighting of the menorah. The menorah is a special candelabrum with nine branches. Each night, one additional candle is lit, starting with the central candle known as the shamash. By the eighth night, all eight candles are illuminated, creating a beautiful display of light. Families gather each evening to light the candles, recite prayers, and sing songs that add to the festive atmosphere.

4. Delicious Hanukkah Treats

Hanukkah encompasses more than the glow of candlelight; it’s a celebration that indulges the palate with delightful treats. Central to this festive experience are fried foods, serving as a symbolic homage to the miraculous oil. Families come together during Hanukkah to savor these scrumptious treats, fostering a shared sense of joy throughout the season. Among these culinary delights are latkes, savory potato pancakes, and sufganiyots. What, you may wonder is a Sufganiyot?

Sufganiyot, alternatively known as sufganiyah or sufganiot, hold a special place in the hearts of those observing Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights. These pastry treasures become a cherished tradition during the eight days of Hanukkah, typically celebrated in December.

Picture this: golden-fried doughnuts, light and fluffy, generously coated in powdered sugar. Sufganiyot take form from sweet, leavened dough, and after their deep-fry immersion, they often cradle fruity delights such as raspberry and strawberry preserves.

The significance of sufganiyot in Hanukkah extends to the very oil in which they are fried, a representation of the miraculous oil that sustained the Menorah’s flame for eight days in the ancient Temple of Jerusalem. According to the Hanukkah narrative, a meager amount of oil defied expectations, lasting far beyond its anticipated duration.

In contemporary Hanukkah celebrations, families unite to illuminate the Hanukkah menorah, progressively adding a candle for each night of the festival. Sufganiyot, with their sweet and symbolic resonance, become a delightful addition to these joyous gatherings, commemorating the enduring miracle of the oil.

Beyond Israel, sufganiyot have evolved into a beloved Hanukkah tradition embraced by Jewish communities worldwide. Bakeries eagerly prepare and sell these delectable doughnuts well in advance of Hanukkah, offering an array of flavors to suit diverse palates. Whether acquired from a local bakery or crafted with love at home, sufganiyot stand as a sweet testament to the enduring spirit of Hanukkah celebrations.

5. Dreidel Games

Dreidel, a traditional Hanukkah game, features a four-sided spinning top adorned with Hebrew letters — Nun (נ), Gimel (ג), Hey (ה), and Shin (ש). Each letter holds a unique role in this cherished game of chance. As families and friends gather during Hanukkah, the dreidel becomes a source of joy, infusing the festivities with a spirited blend of fun and friendly competition.

Spinning the dreidel initiates the game, with players eagerly awaiting the outcome. The letters dictate the next move: Nun means no action, Gimel grants the entire pot, Hey secures half, and Shin requires a contribution to the pot. Together, these letters form the acronym “Nes Gadol Haya Sham,” signifying “A great miracle happened there.”

The dreidel game unfolds as players take turns, creating an engaging atmosphere of excitement and unpredictability. Whether someone accumulates all the game pieces or the collective decision to conclude the game is reached, the dreidel ritual contributes to the festive and enjoyable spirit of Hanukkah celebrations.

The Festival of Lights has a rich history and vibrant traditions that make Hanukkah a time of joy, togetherness, and reflection for Jewish communities worldwide. Best wishes for a luminous Hanukkah filled with joy, warmth, and the spirit of togetherness!

Stay tuned for more insights into the diverse December celebrations in the upcoming weeks!