Hanukkah- Festival of light

Historical Significance

Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish festival that commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean Revolt in the 2nd century BC. It marks the victory of faith and determination over oppression and remains one of the most important festivals in Jewish tradition.

The Miracle of the Oil

As described in the Babylonian Talmud (Tractate Shabbat 21b), when the Maccabees reclaimed the Temple, they discovered only a small quantity of consecrated oil—enough to light the Temple menorah for a single day. Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, providing sufficient time to prepare fresh oil. This miracle lies at the heart of the Hanukkah celebration.

Time and Duration of Celebration

Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, beginning on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar. The festival serves as a reminder of hope, resilience and divine grace.

Ritual of Lighting the Menorah

A central ritual of Hanukkah is the lighting of candles using a special nine-branched candelabrum, known as the Menorah or Hanukiah. One candle is lit on the first night, with an additional candle lit on each successive night, until all eight candles are lit on the final night. The candles are traditionally placed in windows or doorways to publicly proclaim the miracle.

Symbolism of Light

The candles of Hanukkah symbolize the triumph of good over evil, justice over injustice, and light over darkness. These values resonate universally and reflect the enduring message of the festival.

Hanukkah and Cultural Connection

The Hanukkah postage stamp features a menorah inspired by the wooden menorah used by the Jewish community in Mumbai, symbolizing the cultural ties and shared values between India and Israel and celebrating their growing friendship through the universal symbolism of light.