- 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.
