The story of Hanukkah is one of resilience and miracles. During 168 BC, Israel was under control of the Syrian king Antiochus, who led a movement to persecute anyone practicing Judaism and force them to convert to worshipping Greek gods under threat of death. He then attacked Jerusalem and his soldiers went about killing thousands of innocent civilians before arriving at the holy Second Temple. They desecrated it by erecting idols of Greek gods and slaughtering pigs within. Idolatry is forbidden by the Torah and pigs are not kosher, so this was an offensive and brutal attack on the Jewish people and faith. In response to Antiochus’ actions, a rebellion arose. Jewish soldiers, known as the Maccabees, were able to miraculously defeat the formidable Syrian army using guerilla warfare and could begin rebuilding the temple.

One of the main symbols of Hanukkah is the Menorah, a candelabra with eight branches and one central candle for lighting the others known as the shamash that is often rested in front of a window. The tradition of lighting the Menorah comes from the aftermath of the Syrian attack. When the Syrians desecrated the temple, they made the oil for lighting impure. When the Maccabees arrived to repair it, they found one untouched jar. This oil was thought to only be enough for one night. However, it burned for eight. Thus, each candle on the Menorah represents another day the oil stayed burning.  

The holiday of Hanukkah is one of triumph and happiness after a Jewish victory in protecting their religion and culture. So, many choose to celebrate the holiday with family and friends with Hanukkah parties. Some traditional foods to indulge in are latkes (fried potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (donuts filled with jam or custard). In addition, one can win chocolate gelt playing dreidel. It is also common to give or receive gifts during this time. However, Hanukkah is not just a day for partying and gift-giving, but it also serves as a reminder of the perseverance of the Jewish people in the face of those who have tried to deny them their identity and livelihood.