Jewish Festival Of Hanukkah Celebrated Globally
Often referred to as the Jewish Christmas, Hanukkah or Chanukah is a festival celebrated for eight days, usually in the month of December. It is also known as the “festival of lights.” This year, Hanukkah festivities are taking place from December 7 to December 15.
Hanukkah is observed to commemorate the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem around 200 BC. Legend has it that during the Maccabean Revolt, Jews rebelled against their Greek-Syrian oppressors, leading to the term “rededication.”
Under Greek rule, Jews were forbidden to practice their religion until they recaptured Jerusalem in 164 BC. The purification of the Second Temple and the discovery of a jar of oil, miraculously lasting eight days instead of one, is central to the celebration.
Despite the term “menorah” commonly used, Hanukkah involves lighting the hanukkiah, a nine-branched candelabrum. The ninth holder, known as the “helper” or shamash, is used to light the other eight candles after blessings.
The Jewish Festival of Lights begins on the 25th day of the month of Kislev, the ninth month in the Jewish calendar. The commencement date varies in the Gregorian calendar; for instance, in 2022, Hanukkah started on December 18.
Originally devoid of gift-giving, Hanukkah has evolved into a more commercial celebration. The tradition of giving gifts, especially to children, has become a significant part. Additionally, indulging in deep-fried delights like round jelly doughnuts (sufganiyot) and potato pancakes (latkes) adds flavor to the festivities.
The Prime Minister posted on X, tagging Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel:
“Hanukkah Sameach! I extend my warmest greetings to our Jewish friends in India and around the world on the occasion of Hanukkah. May this festival bring peace, hope and brightness in everybody’s lives. @netanyahu”
Q. Who celebrates Hanukkah?
Answer: Hanukkah is a Jewish festival, and it is primarily celebrated by Jewish communities around the world.
Q. When does the Jewish Festival of Lights, Hanukkah, typically commence in the Jewish calendar?
Answer: Hanukkah begins on the 25th day of the month of Kislev, the ninth month in the Jewish calendar.
Q: What is the historical context of Hanukkah, specifically regarding the prohibition of Jewish religious practices?
Answer: Under Greek rule, Jews were forbidden to practice their religion until the recapture of Jerusalem in 164 BC.
Find More International News Here
Every year on December 22, India celebrates National Mathematics Day. This date marks the birth…
In competitive exams like SSC, Defence, State Exams, and Railways, current affairs are crucial. This…
On Saturday, December 21, 2024, several explosive-laden drones, believed to be part of Ukraine's ongoing…
Uttar Pradesh, one of India's most populous states, is known for its rich cultural and…
The 55th GST Council meeting, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, convened ministers from 28…
India participated in the 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials Meeting (SOM), hosted virtually by Thailand on…