We have celebrated Hanukkah for 25 years with our kids since they were little. We enjoyed each night of Hanukkah. Watching them open each present and what it represented, reading the story of how Hanukkah began.
The Maccabees, also spelled Machabees, were a group of Jewish rebel warriors who took control of Judea, which at the time was part of the Seleucid Empire. They founded the Hasmonean dynasty, which ruled from 167 BCE to 37 BCE, being a fully independent kingdom from about 110 to 63 BCE. They reasserted the Jewish religion, expanded the boundaries of Judea by conquest, and reduced the influence of Hellenism and Hellenistic Judaism.
Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is observed by lighting the candles of a candelabrum with nine branches, called a menorah (or hanukkiah). One branch is typically placed above or below the others and its candle is used to light the other eight candles. This unique candle is called the shamash (Hebrew: שַׁמָּשׁ, "attendant"). Each night, one additional candle is lit by the shamash until all eight candles are lit together on the final night of the festival.[2] Other Hanukkah festivities include playing the game of dreidel and eating oil-based foods, such as latkes and sufganiyot, and dairy foods.
Today we are excited watching our grandchildren during Hanukkah and opening their gifts each year. This is a wonderful and joyous time of the season. Decorating the house for Hanukkah, putting out our Menorahs around the house each year. I just love this time of year with family and friends each night.
When reading about the Maccabees and how the Jews found the oil and how it lasted 8 days and nights. Remembering how a miracle happened that night and every night since.
As we celebrate this year’s Hanukkah with our family and friends, remember all the miracles in our lives that G-D has given us and we remember how they happened and continue to happen in Israel and the world today. One day the world will realize the greatness of G-D and how He has protected us and them. Remember those who are not with their families celebrating Hanukkah this year and pray for them.
Don’t forget the miracles that happened on the first Hanukkah and how the light lasted for 8 days and nights and remember the miracles that has happens in our lives as well.
Happy Hanukkah!!!