Hanukkah

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 is the commemoration of 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 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 for eight days. South Africa, with its history of apartheid and struggle against inequality, finds deep resonance in the essence of Hanukkah. The festival serves as a reminder to 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 the giving of 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 in the South African context, as it is celebrated on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, which varies according to the Gregorian calendar.