5 Fun Facts About Hanukkah You Probably Didn’t Know

5 Fun Facts About Hanukkah You Probably Didn’t Know

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major Jewish holiday celebrated around the world. Here are five fun facts about Hanukkah that you probably didn’t know:

1. Hanukkah is not mentioned in the Torah

You might be surprised to learn that the holiday of Hanukkah is not mentioned in the Torah, the Jewish holy book. Instead, the story of Hanukkah is found in the Books of the Maccabees and later Jewish writings.

2. The holiday lasts for eight nights

Hanukkah lasts for eight nights and is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah. The menorah has nine branches, with one branch used to light the other eight. Each night, another candle is added to the menorah until all eight are lit on the last night.

3. The menorah is placed in a special spot

Traditionally, the menorah is placed in a window or doorway of the home so that the candles can be seen by others. This symbolizes the miracle of the oil, where a small amount of oil lasted for eight nights, allowing the Jews to rededicate the Temple.

4. Hanukkah celebrates a military victory

Hanukkah celebrates the victory of the Maccabees, a Jewish army, over Antiochus IV and his Greek soldiers. This victory allowed the Jews to rededicate the Temple and reclaim it from the Greeks.

5. Foods play a big role in the celebration

Just like many holidays, food plays a big role in Hanukkah celebrations. Traditional foods include latkes, which are potato pancakes, and jelly filled donuts called sufganiyot. These foods are often fried in oil to symbolize the miracle of the oil.

In conclusion, Hanukkah is a time of joy and celebration for Jewish people around the world. With its historical significance and fun traditions, it’s no wonder this holiday is so beloved. From lighting the menorah to enjoying delicious foods, there are so many ways to celebrate Hanukkah and honor its rich history and traditions.