Hanoukka, also known as Hanukkah, is a Jewish holiday celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. It commemorates the Maccabees' victory over the Syrian Greeks in the 2nd century BCE and the miracle of the oil lasting eight days.
Origine historique
The festival marks the rededication ("hanukkah" means dedication in Hebrew) after Antiochus IV defiled the Temple, forcing Hellenization on Jews. The Maccabees reclaimed and purified it, relighting the menorah with a small cruse of oil that miraculously burned for eight nights.
Traditions principales
During eight nights starting on the 25th of Kislev (late November to December), families light the hanukkiyah—a nine-branched candelabrum—adding one candle nightly using the shamash helper candle. Customs include eating fried foods like sufganiyot doughnuts and latkes, playing dreidel, and exchanging gifts.
Signification spirituelle
Hanukkah symbolizes light triumphing over darkness, religious freedom, and education toward redemption. It's a joyous, minor holiday emphasizing miracles and public display of faith through visible menorah lighting.