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2 THEOLOGY
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AND THE
LIGHTS OF HANUKKAH
During the Feast of Dedication, or
Hanukkah as it is commonly known, Jewish
people around the world celebrate God’s
provision and protection. Hanukkah is
celebrated beginning on the 25th day of
the Hebrew month of Kislev, which usually
falls in December. During the eight days of
Hanukkah everybody (including children)
takes turns lighting the special Hanukkah
menorah and they reflect on God’s faithful
loving-kindness.
The Hanukkah menorah is a ninebranched
candelabra, called a hanukkiah. The middle candle is always
there, but as the nights go on, additional candles are added from right
to left when facing the candelabra. The candles are lit with the middle
candle—known by its special designation as the “servant” candle, from
left to right (lighting the newest candle first). Redemption and sacrifice
are two key concepts of Hanukkah because the Maccabean victory
(which was a victory for all Jews as it gave them independence for the
first time in 500 years), came at a great cost.
The famous Jewish traditional story of the miracle of the oil is
known by many. After the great victory over the Greek army, the
Maccabees only had enough purified olive oil to fuel the eternal light in
the Temple, as they were rededicating the Temple, for one day, but the
oil lasted for eight days. However, the true miracle is God’s faithfulness