Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday filled with tradition, symbolism, and celebration. While many people are familiar with the story of the oil that miraculously lasted for eight days, there are a few lesser-known facts about Hanukkah that are worth discovering.
1. Hanukkah is a Minor Holiday
Contrary to popular belief, Hanukkah is not a major Jewish holiday in terms of religious significance. Hanukkah is a relatively minor holiday, unlike other holidays like Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, which are days of deep reflection and solemnity.
Its importance has increased over time due to its proximity to Christmas in Western society. However, the holiday's central theme of religious freedom and the victory of light over darkness resonates with many people worldwide.
2. Light the Menorah Right to Left, but Add Candles Opposite
One of the most recognizable symbols of Hanukkah is the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum. An additional candle is lit each night, starting with the "helper" candle, known as the shamash. It is then used to light the other candles. While the candles are added from left to right, they are lit from right to left, representing the act of bringing light into the world.
3. The Dreidel Game Has Political Origins
A popular Hanukkah game involves spinning a four-sided spinning top, known as a dreidel, with Hebrew letters on each side. The letters are nun, gimel, hay, and shin, which stands for the phrase "Nes Gadol Haya Sham." This translates to "a great miracle happened there."
However, during the time of the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire, the letters had different meanings. They served as a code for the Hebrew words for "a great miracle happened there," referring to the military successes against the oppressors. The dreidel game thus served as a covert way to celebrate Jewish resistance and victory during a time of oppression.
Hanukkah is a time of joy, gratitude, and remembrance. While it may not hold the same weight as other holidays on the Jewish calendar, it remains an important celebration of faith and resilience. Understanding these lesser-known facts about Hanukkah enhances our appreciation for this cherished holiday and its many traditions.
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