Hanukkah

Last Day of Hanukkah History

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish observance that celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This eight-day festival is centered around the lighting of the Menorah, a nine-branched candlestick, with one additional candle lit each night. While focused on religious significance, Hanukkah also incorporates elements of joy and celebration, traditionally including activities such as playing the dreidel game and sharing special foods, including latkes and sufganiyot (jam-filled doughnuts).

The observance of Hanukkah stems from events that took place in the second century B.C., when the Jews rose against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt, freeing Jerusalem and rededicating the temple. This historical context is recognized and acknowledged in the United Kingdom, as in many other parts of the world, despite the U.K.'s Jewish population being relatively small. The significance of the Hanukkah Ends is seen in the broader context of religious freedom. This concept has resonated through British history and contributes to the diverse, multicultural society of the U.K. today.

In the U.K., the ending of Hanukkah is marked much like the rest of the festival, with the lighting of the Menorah taking place in homes and synagogues and, in some cities, public candle-lighting ceremonies. Jewish communities have a distinct unity during this time, with nationwide gatherings and festive events. Like other countries, Hanukkah Ends in the United Kingdom according to the Hebrew calendar, on the 2nd or 3rd of December, finishing eight days after it begins. This conclusion serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, resilience, and the power of light over darkness.

Facts about Hanukkah

• Hanukkah commemorates the cleansing and re-dedicating of the Temple in Jerusalem more than 2000 years ago. Syrian king Antiochus had ordered the Jews to abandon the Torah and worship Greek gods. In retaliation, Judas Maccabeus retook the temple in Jerusalem.
• On the final night of Hanukkah, the last candle of the menorah is lit. The lighting of the menorah serves as a reminder to those passing by of the miracle that occurred so long ago when the remaining bit of pure oil burned for eight nights.
• The "miracle of the oil lamp" refers to a legend where a one-day supply of oil miraculously burned for eight days.
• The Jewish community in the UK was expelled in 1290 due to various reasons, including rampant anti-Semitism, debts owed to Jewish moneylenders, and religious tensions.
• The Hebrew word "Hanukkah" means "dedication," referring to the rededication of the Holy Temple after it was desecrated by the Greco-Syrians. The story behind Hanukkah revolves around the Maccabees, a group of Jewish rebels who fought against the Greco-Syrian King Antiochus IV.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Hanukkah

Top things to do in the UK for Last Day of Hanukkah

• Enjoy traditional fried foods like latkes, sufganiyot, or apple fritters.
• Consider participating in a local community service or volunteering opportunity during the holiday season. There are often initiatives organized by Jewish organizations or general charities that would appreciate your help.
• Take some time to understand the significance of Hanukkah and the customs associated with it. Visit Jewish museums, exhibitions, or cultural centers to learn more about Jewish history, traditions, and Hanukkah rituals.

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