Chanukah, the Festival of Dedication [chanukah in Hebrew means "dedication"], also known as the “Festival of Lights” is the most widely celebrated American Jewish holiday, possibly because it is a fun, child-centered celebration. It is celebrated with excellent food, an exchange of gifts, and the lighting of beautiful menorahs (called “chanukiahs”) filled with brightly colored candles. Unlike some of the other Jewish holidays, which require intense spiritual reflection or elaborate preparation, it is easy to celebrate.

The history of Chanukah goes back to the time when Jews where under the rule of the Greek empire [which began under Alexander the "Great"], by which a Greek-Syrian ruler, by the name of Antiochus Epiphanes, tried to outlaw Judaism, and the “Jewish way of life”. The Torah, the Sabbath, and other biblical observances were outlawed. He deflied the Temple in Jerusalem with a pagan idol/image of Zeus, and sacrificed an un-kosher animal [swine] on the altar of the God of Israel.

Through the leadership of a Jewish family, called the “Macabees”, Antiochus the “mad-man” was overthrown, and the Temple was re-dedicated on the 25th of the month of Kislev, in the Jewish Calendar [corresponding to December]. This year, the 25th of Kislev corresponds to the evening of December 11th, 2009.

The tradition around the eight days of Chanukah relate to the Re-dedication of the Temple. There was said to be only one cruse of oil [enough to last a day], consecrated by the High Priest [this took a 7 day consecration process], to light the Temple Menorah. Instead of going out the oil miraculously lasted eight “glorious days”. This is really a celebration over the triumph of light over darkness, of holiness over ungodliness, of spiritual truths over carnal pursuits.

Without the Feast of Dedication [John 10:22], there would be no Judaism or the Jewish People, no faith in the Bible or True God of the Bible, and most of all no faith or hope in a coming Messiah to bring eternal redemption for all mankind.

Yochanan / John 10:22
Then came Chanukah in Yerushalayim [Jerusalem]. It was winter, 23 and Yeshua [Jesus] was walking around inside the Temple area, in Shlomo’s Colonnade. 24 So the Judeans [Jews] surrounded him and said to him, “How much longer are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us publicly!” 25 Yeshua answered them, “I have already told you, and you don’t trust me. The works I do in my Father’s name testify on my behalf…

All are welcomed to come celebrate this “Festival of Lights”!

Chag Sameach! Happy Chanukah!
From Rabbi Brian & Magali Bileci

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