What is Hanukkah?

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Hanukkah is the Jewish Festival of Lights. The word 'Hanukkah' means 'Dedication' in Hebrew. It celebrates a miracle that happened in Jerusalem over 2,000 years ago.

When is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah (or Chanukah in Hebrew) is celebrated in November or December every year. It lasts for eight days.

In 2024 Hanukkah begins on the evening of Wednesday 25 December.

What is the story of Hanukkah?

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A long time ago a Syrian king called Antiochus banned the Jews from worshiping God. He put a big statue of himself in their temple and ordered them to bow before it.
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However, the Jews refused to obey him because the Ten Commandments forbid them to worship anyone other than God.
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A small group of Jews called the Maccabees fought back against the kings army.
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After three years, they won the war and recaptured Jerusalem from the Syrians
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When the Jews went back to their temple, they saw that it had nearly been destroyed.
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They cleaned and repaired the temple. When they were finished, they rededicated it to God. They did this by lighting the lamp, which was a symbol of God's presence.
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They only had one small jar of oil which was only enough for one day.
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However, miraculously the lamp stayed alight for eight days! That is why Jews light a candle every day of Hanukkah.

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When is Hanukkah?

What is the story of Hanukkah?

How is Hanukkah celebrated?

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