Happy Hanukkah + a Playlist
Words by: Maggie Laubscher | Music by: Abby Yemm
It’s time for the Festival of Lights, Jewish style. Each year, Hanukkah (sometimes spelled Chanukah) ushers in eight nights of light and love and celebration. Last night marked the first day of the 2020 celebration. Happy Hanukkah!
There are so many beautiful rituals involved in the holiday. It’s called the Festival of Lights because it’s about bringing light and warmth into our homes, our communities and our world. Central to it is the menorah, a branched candlestick that holds nine candles. The candles represent knowledge and creation, with a new candle lit each evening. The ninth candle, called the shamash (or helper), is used to light the others.
Curious how the ritual started? We were. Following the Maccabean Revolt, a Jewish rebellion, there was a dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem. The menorah was lit, though there was only enough untainted olive oil to keep the candles burning for one day. The miracle occurred when the flames continued flickering for eight nights.
And so Hanukkah began. In fact, the word Hanukkah means ‘dedication’ in Hebrew. Today, the holiday is celebrated with lights and gifts and food. Here are some lovely festivities we’d like to add to our wish lists…