Hanukkah (Chanukah)

When most people think of Jewish holidays, Hanukkah (Chanukah) is the first holiday that comes to mind. In reality, this holiday is not religious and is probably one of the least important Jewish celebrations. Its popularity, no doubt, comes from being so close to the Christian celebration of Christmas on the calendar. Regardless, many Jewish people enjoy celebrating this holiday. …

when is chanukah

When is Chanukah? Chanukah (Hanukkah) was founded in commemoration of the fight against assimilation that dates back 22 centuries ago. It is also in honour of the Jewish resistance against Antiochus IV, a Syrian-Greek monarchs who rein the Northern division of Alexander the Great’s fallen empire. Unlike Alexander the Great who had been respectful of the monotheistic religion of the …

The History of Chanukah

The history of Chanukah, otherwise known as Hanukkah dates back more than 2,000 years ago, where the Jewish people were living under the oppressive regime of the Syrian ruler Antiochus Ephipanes IV. Antiochus IV was the successor of Seleucus one of the Generals of Alexander the Great. Antiochus IV was rather the opposite of Alexander the Great’s respect for the …

the dreidel game played during chanukah

The Dreidel Game Played During Chanukah Dreidel is a traditional Chanukah (Hannukah) game played mostly in Jewish homes around the world. Dreidel in Hebrew means sevivon, which in Yiddish is to turn around. The Dreidel is one of the most popular symbols of Chanukah. Dreidels are essentially tops with four sides having Hebrew letters embedded on each side. Dreidel is …

Purim – A Day of Charity and Celebration

Of all the Jewish holidays, Purim is one of the most beloved by the Jewish people and also one of the most joyous. It is celebrated in the first part of the year, normally in the month of March. This holiday is marked by festivals, special meals, the giving of gifts, and even the wearing of masks. The history of …

hanukkah traditions

Hanukkah Traditions Hanukkah is a great Jewish religious event and it gets a lot of attention, especially because of its timing around Christmas season. Hard to believe, even with its popularity, Hanukkah is one of the less important holidays in the Jewish calendar, but nonetheless, it’s still a significant time of year, where it is associated with a number of …

Hanukkah: Remembering the Past

The annual festival of the Jewish people Hanukkah, also known as the festival of lights, is one of the most awaited and popular events in the Jewish culture. The festival is celebrated for eight straight days in December or late November as per the Gregorian calendar which begins on 25th of the month of Kislev, third month of the Jewish …

Hanukkah Gifts for Mom and Dad

Hanukkah is a popular gift-giving holiday. It is during this time when parents prepare special gifts for their children. As we celebrate Hanukkah this year, why not return the favor and give a memorable gift to your parents that are sure to paint smile on their faces. Here are some tips in choosing a good Hanukkah gift for your parent. …

hanukkah gift giving

Hanukkah Gift Giving Hanukkah gets a lot of attention, and has become so centered and almost focused around gifts. Many Jews have expanded the gelt giving tradition to a gift giving tradition, especially because of its timing and proximity around Christmas season. Gift giving is a well kept tradition in Christmas and celebrating it without gifts is like eating cake …

Hanukkah (Chanukah)

When most people think of Jewish holidays, Hanukkah (Chanukah) is the first holiday that comes to mind. In reality, this holiday is not religious and is probably one of the least important Jewish celebrations. Its popularity, no doubt, comes from being so close to the Christian celebration of Christmas on the calendar. Regardless, many Jewish people enjoy celebrating this holiday. …