Menorah's, Lights, Dreidel Lights, and Department 56 Judaica
Collectibles from the online leader in Hanukah.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights or Festival of
Dedication, is an eight day Jewish holiday that starts on the 25th
day of Kislev, which may be in December, late November, or, while
very rare in occasion, early January (as was the case for the
Hannukkah of 2005–2006). The festival is observed in Jewish homes by
the kindling of lights on each of the festival's eight nights, one
on the first night, two on the second night and so on.
In commemoration of these miracles, a Hanukkah Menorah (also
called a Hanukkiah) is lit during each of the eight nights of
Hanukkah. Lighting the Hanukkah Menorah is the central observance of
the festival. One candle is lit the first night, and an additional
candle is lit each successive night. Thus, on the last night of
Hanukkah, all eight candles of the Hanukkiah are lit. The candles
should be lit by a window or door in order to fulfill the
commandment to "publicize the miracle." While lighting the candles,
blessings are recited and the ancient chant Hanerot Hallalu is
traditionally sung. After lighting the candles, it is a tradition to
sing Maoz Tzur.
Hanukkah is a fun festival, especially for children. After lighting
the Hanukkah candles together, families (and often invited guests) will
eat and play games. Traditional Hanukkah food is oil-rich in
commemoration of the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days.
Potato pancakes (Latkas in Yiddish, Livivot in Hebrew) are a Hanukkah
favorite. Israelis eat Hanukkah doughnuts called soofganiot. Dreidel (sivovon
in Hebrew) is a traditional Hanukkah game, with game rules so simple
that the whole family, from toddlers to grandparents can play together.
The custom of giving Hanukkah gelt (money) to children has evolved into
a gift-giving tradition in many Jewish families today.
Happy Hanukkah!
|