Terror Attack on Hanukkah 

  • Hanukkah is being observed globally from 14 December to 22 December, 2025.
  • The festival recently featured in news due to a security incident targeting the Jewish community in Sydney, Australia, during Hanukkah celebrations.

What is Hanukkah

  • Hanukkah, also spelled Chanukah, is an eight-day Jewish festival observed during winter.
  • It commemorates the rededication of the Second Holy Temple in Jerusalem.
  • The term Chanukah means “dedication” in Hebrew.
  • It symbolises the victory of religious freedom over forced cultural assimilation.

Historical Background

  • Dates back to the 2nd century BCE.
  • The region was under the control of the Seleucid (Syrian-Greek) Empire.
  • Jewish religious practices were suppressed and Hellenistic culture imposed.
  • A revolt led by Mattathias, a Jewish priest, and later the Maccabees, defeated the Seleucids.
  • The Holy Temple was reclaimed and purified, leading to its rededication.

Key Symbols Associated with Hanukkah

  • Menorah: Central symbol of the festival.
  • Oil: Represents endurance of faith.
  • Light: Symbolises hope and religious freedom.

Calendar and Duration

  • Begins on the 25th day of Kislev in the Jewish lunar calendar.
  • Continues for eight days, ending on the 2nd day of Tevet.
  • The final day is referred to as Zos Chanukah.

Religious and Cultural Significance

  • Known as the Festival of Lights.
  • Celebrated by lighting a menorah (a nine-branched candelabrum).
  • One candle is lit each night, using a helper candle called the shamash.
  • Special prayers are recited, and traditional foods cooked in oil are eaten, symbolising faith and perseverance.
About the UPSC Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE)

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most competitive and esteemed examinations in India, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit officers for services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and others. The exam comprises three stages — Prelims, Mains, and the Personality Test (Interview) — designed to test a candidate’s knowledge, aptitude, decision-making, and leadership skills.


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