10 Interesting Chanukah Facts

The Story Behind ‘Chanukah’

The word “Chanukah” is derived from the Hebrew word “חֲנֻכָּה,” which means “dedication” or “renewal.” This name is a reference to the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after it was liberated from the Seleucid Empire by the Maccabees.

 

Triumph Against All Odds

The Maccabean Revolt, which led to the celebration of Chanukah, was a heroic struggle for religious freedom. The small band of Jewish rebels, led by Judah Maccabee, overcame incredible odds to defeat the mighty Seleucid army and reclaim their sacred temple.

 

The Oil Miracle

One of the most well-known aspects of Chanukah is the miracle of the oil. According to tradition, a small jar of pure olive oil, enough for only one day, miraculously lasted for eight days, allowing the menorah in the Holy Temple to burn continuously. This miracle is symbolized by the eight candles of the Chanukah menorah (plus the ninth, the shamash).

 

The Sukkot Connection 

Surprisingly, the first Chanukah celebration was originally intended to be a delayed observance of Sukkot. Due to the Maccabees’ ongoing battle for liberation, they couldn’t celebrate Sukkot on time. Instead, they celebrated it in the month of Kislev, which later evolved into the eight-day festival of Chanukah.

 

The Absence of Maccabees in the Hebrew Bible

The books of Maccabees, which provide historical accounts of the events leading up to Chanukah, are not included in the Hebrew Bible. However, they are part of the Catholic Bible. The exclusion of these texts from the Hebrew Bible has sparked various theories and discussions among scholars.

 

The Largest Menorah in the World

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest menorah in the world stands at an impressive 32 feet high and weighs a whopping 4,000 pounds. While tradition suggests menorahs should be around 31 feet tall, this record-breaking menorah is a great example of the grandeur of  Chanukah celebrations.

 

The Role of Cheese in Hanukkah

While oily kosher foods like latkes and sufganiyot are Chanukah staples, cheese also has a place in this holiday’s food tradition. This tradition pays homage to Judith, who used cheese to facilitate the defeat of the Assyrian general Holofernes.

 

Marilyn Monroe’s Menorah

Guess who had a music-playing Hanukkah menorah? None other than Marilyn Monroe! When the iconic Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe converted to Judaism before marrying Jewish playwright Arthur Miller, her future mother-in-law gave her a special menorah as a conversion gift. This unique Chanukah lamp has a wind-up music box in its base that plays Hatikvah, Israel’s national anthem. It’s a historical artifact featured in the Jewish Museum in New York City’s exhibit “Becoming Jewish: Warhol’s Liz and Marilyn.”

 

Thanksgiving and Chanukah Crossover

Back in 2013, Chanukah and Thanksgiving fell on the same day. It was a once-in-a-blue moon  event, with turkey-shaped menorahs and a giant dreidel float in the Macy’s Parade also called as Thanksgivukkah. While experts say a full day of Chanukah won’t coincide with Thanksgiving for thousands of years, it is also said that the first night of Chanukah will fall in time for Thanksgiving dinner on Nov. 27, 2070.

 

The Latke’s Global Transformation

Latkes, those delicious potato pancakes, are a Chanukah favorite. But did you know that latkes have evolved worldwide? In different countries, you’ll find unique variations, such as the Polish placki ziemniaczane, the Indian aloo tikki, and the Korean gamjajeon. These variations showcase the versatility and adaptability of latkes, making them a beloved treat not only during Chanukah but throughout the year in diverse culinary traditions.

 

As you celebrate Chanukah, keep these exciting secrets in mind. Whether you’re lighting candles, enjoying tasty treats, or playing games with loved ones, Chanukah is a holiday filled with stories,  just waiting to be shared. Chag Chanukah Samech.