Hanukkah History

Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is an eight-day Jewish festival observed by lighting the menorah, a candelabrum with nine branches. The central theme of this festival is the celebration of religious freedom and the victory of light over darkness. It holds great significance in the Jewish religious calendar as it commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean Revolt against the oppressive Seleucid Empire. Hanukkah embodies spiritual strength and the importance of standing against oppression, reflecting the core values of the Jewish faith.

The story of Hanukkah dates back over two millennia, when a small group of Jewish rebels, known as the Maccabees, fought against the tyrannical rule of Antiochus IV Epiphanes. After reclaiming the temple, only one day's worth of oil for lighting the ceremonial candelabrum (menorah) was available, yet miraculously, the oil lasted eight days. South Africa, with its history of apartheid and struggle against inequality, finds deep resonance in the essence of Hanukkah. The festival reminds South African Jews and others alike about the importance of fighting for freedom, tolerance, and equity in the face of adversity.

Observance of Hanukkah in South Africa follows traditional practices such as lighting the menorah each night, reciting blessings, and sharing festive meals with family and friends. Dreidel games and giving gelt (money or chocolate coins) to children are among the customs enjoyed during the holiday period. Additionally, communal menorah-lighting ceremonies at public places by Chabad organizations foster unity among South African Jews and contribute to preserving and promoting their culture. Hanukkah occurs annually around November or December, depending on the year's calendar, as it is celebrated on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, which varies according to the Gregorian calendar.

Top 2 Facts for 2026 Hanukkah (Begins) in South Africa

• There is a distinctive South African twist to Hanukkah's food in some households. For example, pumpkin might sometimes replace potatoes in latkes or traditional South African desserts, like Malva pudding, are enjoyed alongside classic Hanukkah treats.
• Gift-giving during Hanukkah is becoming increasingly popular in South Africa, following the influence of the United States and other Western countries.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for Hanukkah

Top things to do in South Africa for Hanukkah

• Play a dreidel game, which consists of spinning a special four-sided block with Hebrew letters. Once you're out of game pieces, you can either get a loan or you're out until one person collects all of the game pieces.
• Make latkes and donuts at home. Many recipes can be found online.
• Prepare and enjoy traditional Hanukkah foods like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts).
• Set up a Hanukkah menorah (hanukkiah) in your home and light the candles each night. Invite friends, family, and neighbors to join you in the lighting ceremony, reciting the blessings, and singing traditional Hanukkah songs.