Hanukkah 2024 Starts on Christmas Day: What Does the Festival of Lights Mean?

Every year, Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days to commemorate the miracle of the oil flask that burned far longer than anticipated. In 2024, this religious holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, will coincide with Christmas, marking eight days of festivities. But do you really know the origins of this Jewish festival?

What are the dates for Hanukkah in 2024?

This year, Hanukkah will begin on Wednesday, December 25, Christmas Day, and will extend until Thursday, January 2, 2025.

What is the history of Hanukkah?

In the 2nd century BCE, after numerous conflicts, the Greco-Syrian Seleucid kings dominated Judea. In an effort to enforce Hellenistic culture, King Antiochus IV banned the practice of Jewish religion, breaking with the tolerance policy of his father, Antiochus III. In response, a group of Jews led by Judah Maccabee took up arms to resist. After their victory over the Seleucid forces, the Jews reclaimed Jerusalem and dedicated a new altar in the Temple.

Why do we speak of the “miracle of the oil flask”?

When it came time to relight the menorah, only a small flask of oil was found intact, after the desecration and looting of the Temple. It was only supposed to last for one day, but miraculously, the menorah stayed lit for eight days, just enough time to prepare a fresh supply of oil. Thus, Hanukkah became a symbol of the “Festival of Lights,” referring to the lighting of this oil flask that miraculously lasted eight days. Hanukkah has a very deep symbolism. We celebrate the “miracle of the oil flask,” the triumph of light over darkness, hence the name “Festival of Lights.” The candle flame is thus a light in the night, an allegory meaning that even in the depths of despair, one can find a glimmer of salvation.

At Hanukkah, why do children play with a dreidel?

At that time, despite the ban on studying the Jewish religion decreed by Antiochus IV, some Jews continued to study the Torah secretly. When they feared being discovered in their activity, they would quickly start playing with a dreidel to create a diversion.

Why do we light Hanukkah candles?

The emblem of Hanukkah, the nine-branched menorah, also called Hanukkiah, is the focus of all prayers. The Hanukkiah is directly inspired by the menorah, the seven-branched candelabrum of the Temple of Jerusalem. Each evening, a new candle is placed, while prayers and liturgical songs are recited. The ninth branch, called the Shamash, is used to light the other candles. On the first night, one candle is lit using the Shamash, on the second night, two candles, and so on until the eighth day, when the entire menorah is lit.

Why do we eat doughnuts at Hanukkah?

Made with oil, the doughnut also commemorates the miracle of the oil flask. It is the central food of the Hanukkah festival, dipped in sugar and shared with family. According to tradition, some doughnuts are also filled with chocolate or jam. Generally, fried foods are consumed at Hanukkah. Families gather for the candle lighting, give gifts to children, sing, and dance, all while enjoying doughnuts.

How to wish someone a Happy Hanukkah?

To wish each other a happy Hanukkah, the faithful usually say “Hag Sameah” or “Hanukkah Sameah,” which mean “Happy holiday” or “Happy Hanukkah.” If you are not part of the Jewish community, you can simply say “Happy Hanukkah” or try the Hebrew version to the person you know.