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In this article, we have compiled some
interesting facts about Hanukkah. Read on to get important Hanukkah
facts.
Hanukkah Facts
Hanukkah is the annual Jewish Festival of Lights that
starts on the 25th day of Kislev as per the Jewish calendar. It is an
eight-day festival of religious observance by Jews across the world. In
2008, Hanukkah will be celebrated on 21st December. Hanukkah celebrates
the victory of Jewish troops led by Judah Maccabee over the Greek
soldiers, the miracle of purified oil, which lit Menorah for eight days
continuously, and the rededication of Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In this
article, we have compiled some interesting facts about Hanukkah. Read on
to get important Hanukkah facts.
- Hanukkah for Jews is as important as Christmas for Christians.
- Hanukkah is spelt differently by different people. Some name it
as Chanukkah while the majority of people name it as Hanukkah.
- As per the Western calendar, the date for the commencement of
Chanukah varies every year.
- Lighting of Menorah is the main Hanukah tradition.
- The Hanukkah candles are added onto the special candelabrum from
right to left, but are lit only from left to right.
- 'Hanerot Hallalu', an ancient Hanukkah song is recited or sang
while lighting the candles.
- According to Chanukkah tradition, the candles on the candelabrum
should not blow out until the end of the festival.
- Traditional Hanukkah food is cooked during the festival. Oil is
the key ingredient of the foods, which is a sign of tribute to the
miracle of purified oil.
- Gifts are also exchanged during the festival of Hanukkah. This
tradition is probably adapted from the Christmas tradition of gift
giving.
- Gambling is considered almost a sin. However, a gambling game
called as "dreidel" is a popular Hanukkah tradition.
People play this game with a square spinning top. However, the game
is not played for hefty sum, but for pennies or chocolate coins.
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