Happy Chanukah

Tonight marks the beginning of Chanukah. It is hard to believe it is already that time of year again. 2009 flew by, and now 2010 is just a few short weeks away. For all of those who celebrate... Happy Chanukah (or however you choose to spell it).

For those who do not know much about Chanukah, here is a lesson:

Chanukah is a celebration of religious freedom recalling a great victory that took place more than 2,000 years ago. Judah Macabee led a small group of his fellow Jews against the Syrian Greeks who tried to eradicate Judaism. Though the Jews were greatly out-numbered, they were victorious and succeeded in saving Judaism. Judah Macabee and his followers recaptured the Temple in Jerusalem that had been defiled by the Syrian Greeks.

When they rededicated the Temple, they discovered a small quantity of pure oil for the Menorah. They thought that the oil would only last for 1 day but a miracle occurred and it kept the Menorah lit for 8 days. Jews light 9 branched Menorahs in their homes: The middle candle is known as the “Shammes” (helper) and lights the other 8 candles. 1 candle is lit on the 1st night of Chanuakh, 2 candles on the 2nd night and so forth until the Holiday ends with the lighting of all 8 candles. To recall the miracle of the oil, foods fried in oil are eaten during Chanukah. Jews not living in Israel eat “Latkes” (potato pancakes) while Israeli Jews prefer jelly donuts. Jewish children spin the Dreidel, a spinning top: 1 Hebrew letter appears on each side reminding Jews that “a great miracle happened there”-- the pure oil lasted for 8 days.

So... to those of you who just learned something, I am glad I could teach. To those who already knew it... Happy Chanukah. May we all have a wonderful and happy holiday season filled with good food, good friends, good times, and good gifts.

Check back often for more Random Ramblings!