HAPPY CHANUKAH to all Jews!
We celebrated the first night with homemade latkes(potato pancakes), matzo ball soup, gifts and lots of giggles. It’s a wonderful time of the year to give thanks, share joy and remember our past.
Here is some more information and history: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chanukah
| Official name | Hebrew: חֲנֻכָּה or חנוכה English translation: “Establishing” or “Dedication” (of the Temple in Jerusalem) |
|---|---|
| Also called | Festival of Lights, Festival of Dedication |
| Observed by | Jews |
| Type | Jewish festival |
| Significance | The Maccabees successfully rebelled against Antiochus IV Epiphanes. According to theTalmud, a late text, the Temple was purified and the wicks of the menorah miraculously burned for eight days, even though there was only enough sacred oil for one day’s lighting. |
| Begins | 25 Kislev |
| Ends | 2 Tevet or 3 Tevet |
| 2011 date | Sunset, December 20 to sunset, December 28 |
| 2012 date | Sunset, December 8 to sunset, December 16 |
| Celebrations | Lighting candles each night. Singing special songs, such asMa’oz Tzur. Reciting Hallelprayer. Eating foods fried in oil, such as latkes and sufganiyot, and dairy foods. Playing thedreidel game, and givingHanukkah gelt |
From my home to yours, Happy Chanukah and may there be peace in our world.
Aloha,
Denise