Hanukkah is a meaningful and historical Jewish holiday with deep significance. Its origins trace back to the second century BCE when the Jewish people were under the rule of the Seleucid Empire. The holiday commemorates the victory of a small group of Jewish rebels, known as the Maccabees, over the oppressive Seleucid King Antiochus IV. After their victory, the Maccabees reclaimed and rededicated the Second Temple in Jerusalem, which had been desecrated by the Seleucids. The miracle of Hanukkah is symbolized by the story of the menorah, a candelabrum with only enough consecrated oil to last for one day, miraculously burning for eight days. This event is why Hanukkah is also called the Festival of Lights. Today, Hanukkah serves as a time for Jewish families to come together, light the menorah, exchange gifts, and celebrate their faith and resilience in the face of adversity. It's a reminder of the importance of religious freedom, unity, and hope.
