Hanukkah

Last Day of Hanukkah History

Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is a Jewish holiday celebrating the liberation and rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt. The overall significance of this observance lies mainly in its educational aspect, as it promotes knowledge about Jewish history and customs and strengthens the religious identity of Jewish communities. The celebration lasts eight days and ends with the Observance of Hanukkah Ends. This final day of Hanukkah is marked by lighting the entire Hanukkah menorah, the observance's central ritual, signifying the oil's complete miracle lasting eight days.

Historically, following the ruling of Emperor Constantine in 313 CE, freedom of religion was allowed in the Roman Empire. Constantine's reign brought about some legal protections and a generally more tolerant atmosphere for Jews than in earlier periods, and the communities began to flourish across Europe. The Observance of Hanukkah was one of the Jewish traditions that persisted through varying degrees of acceptance and persecution. Today, the Observance of Hanukkah Ends is part of the rich cultural and religious diversity appreciated across the European Union. Amid the diverse population of the European Union, its Jewish communities keep their history and spiritual practices alive, including Hanukkah and its culmination, known as Hanukkah Ends.

In the European Union, Hanukkah is observed by lighting the menorah, singing songs, eating traditional foods, and playing games. It is also typical to exchange gifts during this period. The Observance of Hanukkah Ends can take place in synagogues, Jewish community centres, and private homes. It is significant to note that Hanukkah follows the Hebrew calendar. Thus, its dates vary in the Gregorian calendar. In the European Union, as in other parts of the world, the Observance of Hanukkah Ends usually takes place in late December. The date is not fixed; instead, it falls on the 25th day of Kislev and ends on the 2nd or 3rd of Tevet, depending on the length of Kislev in a particular year.

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 story of Hanukkah has inspired numerous works of art and literature across Europe. The Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn created a famous painting called The Triumph of Judas Maccabeus in the 17th century, depicting the historical figure from the Hanukkah story.
• In Italy, Jews often prepare frittelle di Chanukah (Hanukkah fritters), while Hungarian Jews may eat cheese-filled rabotes (a type of pastry) during the festival.

In the News and Trending in the EU for Hanukkah

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

• Enjoy traditional fried foods like latkes, sufganiyot, or apple fritters.
• Use the end of Hanukkah as an opportunity to give back to the community. Volunteer at a local shelter, food bank, or participate in charitable activities to help those in need.
• Take the time to read or learn more about the cultural traditions and history of European Jews. It can be a fascinating way to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the holiday.