This year, Hanukkah begins on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 8, and ends a week later on Sunday, Dec. 16.
According to Chabad.org, Hanukkah starts on the Hebrew calendar date of 25 Kislev and lasts for eight days. For those of us who aren't attuned to the Jewish calendar, that translates to sundown on Saturday, Dec. 8.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the story of the Maccabean Revolt against Syrian rulers in present day Israel 2,300 years ago. The Maccabees wanted to rededicate Jerusalem's main temple but had only enough oil to kindle the Eternal Light for one day. The oil lasted for eight days, according to the story, and the holiday of Hanukkah was born.
Today, Jews generally celebrate by gathering together with family, lighting one candle on the menorah each of the eight nights, playing dreidel and eating special holiday foods such as potato latkes and babka.
TELL US: If you observe Hanukkah, what are your plans?
Wendy Raith
7:15 am on Thursday, November 29, 2012
Jews eat latkes because they are fried in oil. This reminds us of the miracle that the oil lasted 8 days ( number of days of Chanukah) for the eternal light.
My plans- going to a family Chanukah party, lighting a candle each night, receiving a present each night and eating latkes. Years ago, the Jewish people did not receive gifts each night. The parents would quiz children about various Jewish facts or make it a learning lesson and give them gelt ( money) as a reward. Presents began as Jewish children complained that their Christian friends were getting presents and they were not.
Kym Byrnes
1:32 am on Friday, November 30, 2012
Thanks for sharing Wendy. Do you know of any local Chanukah services happening in Eldersburg/Sykesville or Carroll County?