One of the oldest celebrated holidays in the world is Chanukah. It is a fun holiday celebration for all ages. Chanukah is also a great means to learn about your Jewish roots. Here we have come up with facts that will give you a better understanding of this wintry Jewish holiday.

How to celebrate Chanukah?

One of the oldest celebrated holidays in the world is Chanukah. It is a fun holiday celebration for all ages. Chanukah is also a great means to learn about your Jewish roots. Here we have come up with facts that will give you a better understanding of this wintry Jewish holiday.

HISTORY

Several Jewish books chronicle the history of Chanukah. This festival is being celebrated ever since the 2nd century BC right when the Jews were restricted from studying their sacred texts. Their temple had been marred. Only then, a small group of Israelites known as the Maccabees happened to reclaim their temple and stubbornly declared that, ‘We just cannot take it any further!’ The eternal flame of the temple took about 8 days to light and purify. However, the Maccabees only had oil to go on for a single day. Despite that, they chose to light the flame anyway. Miraculously, on the next day, the oil appeared on its own. Each day there was just enough oil for the following night. The menorah didn’t burn perennially for 8 days. It was rather lit for 8 days.

WHEN TO CELEBRATE?

Every year, Chanukah falls on different dates depending on the Jewish calendar. Usually, it starts at sundown but sometimes it can even start as late as November.

HANNUKIAH

The 9 branched candelabra is usually known as menorah. However, technically menorah only has 7 slots. Eight branches represent the eight great night. The center slot is known as helper candle or the shamash and is used to light the others. Every night, the candle is lit with shamash while a blessing is recited. You’ll have to light the candles from left to right but when you place them in the holder, you’ll have to start from the right side. You’ll have to place the candles in a window so that each of you can remember the miracle of Chanukah. If you opt for doing this, you can light the candles starting from the left so when the Hannukiah is placed on the window, it will appear on the right.

DREIDEL

Dreidel is one thrilling game to play. In this, everyone gets nuts or candy when they spin the dreidel and sing the dreidel song. Every letter of Hebrew that is written on this four-sided dreidel comprehends that you put some candy in or take few candies out. The game ends when all the candy is gone.

GIFTS

When you have kids, it is typical to send them gifts. Some common gifts that can be exchanged include chocolate coins, gelt and monies.

POTATO LATKES

It is a shredded potato dish that is garnished with onions, salted mixed pancakes and matzo meal. Served with apple sauce or sour cream, it is the authentic dish in Jewish homes.

CONCLUSION

Chanukah is indeed a great holiday to take out some time and remember the Jewish culture. You can buy challah, read Jewish books and exchange Judaica gifts on this festival. All the Jew gifts can be easily availed from top Judaica stores like Avi Luvaton.