The festival of Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, beginning on the 25th day of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar. In 2024, the first day of Hanukkah falls on Friday, December 20th.

During Hanukkah, Jewish people around the world celebrate by lighting a menorah, reciting prayers, singing songs, and exchanging gifts. Traditional foods such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) are also enjoyed during the holiday.

The story of Hanukkah dates back to the 2nd century BCE, when the Jewish people were ruled by the Seleucid Empire. The Seleucids attempted to suppress Jewish religious practices, leading to a revolt by a group of Jewish rebels known as the Maccabees. After three years of fighting, the Maccabees were victorious and rededicated the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

First Day Of Hanukkah 2024

Celebrate the Festival of Lights.

• Date: December 20th, 2024
• Commemorates: Rededication of Second Temple
• Observance: 8 nights and days
• Traditions: Lighting menorah, prayers, songs
• Foods: Latkes, sufganiyot
• Historical Roots: Maccabees revolt

Join in the joyous celebration of Hanukkah 2024.

Date: December 20th, 2024

The first day of Hanukkah in 2024 falls on Friday, December 20th. This date is determined by the Hebrew calendar, which is a lunisolar calendar that follows the cycles of the moon and the sun. Hanukkah begins on the 25th day of Kislev, which is the ninth month of the Hebrew calendar. In 2024, Kislev begins on December 18th, so the first day of Hanukkah falls two days later, on December 20th.

The date of Hanukkah can vary from year to year on the Gregorian calendar, which is the solar calendar that is most commonly used in the world today. This is because the Hebrew calendar is about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, so Hanukkah gradually shifts backward by about 11 days each year on the Gregorian calendar. As a result, Hanukkah can sometimes occur in late November or early December, but it most commonly falls in December.

The fact that Hanukkah can occur on different dates each year can sometimes lead to challenges for Jewish people who live in countries where the majority of the population does not celebrate Hanukkah. For example, if Hanukkah falls during the school week, Jewish children may need to take a day off from school in order to observe the holiday. However, many Jewish communities have found creative ways to celebrate Hanukkah even when it falls on a weekday, such as by holding community events on weekends or by having special Hanukkah programs at schools and synagogues.

No matter when it falls on the calendar, Hanukkah is a special time for Jewish people around the world to come together and celebrate their heritage and traditions.

Make sure to mark your calendars for December 20th, 2024, and get ready to celebrate the first day of Hanukkah with your loved ones!

Commemorates: Rededication of Second Temple

Han tausendkkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem following its desecration by the Seleucid Empire.

• Historical Context:

  In the 2nd century BCE, the Seleucid Empire ruled over the region of Israel. The Seleucids attempted to suppress Jewish religious practices, including the prohibition of Torah study and the observance of Shabbat. This led to a revolt by a group of Jewish rebels known as the Maccabees.

• Maccabean 蔬菜 Rebellion:

  The Maccabees, led by Judah Maccabee, fought against the Seleucids for three years. Despite being greatly outnumbered, the Maccabees were victorious and recaptured Jerusalem in 164 BCE.

• Rededication of the Temple:

  After reclaiming Jerusalem, the Maccabees set about purifying and rededicating the Second Temple, which had been desecrated by the Seleucids. According to the Talmud, there was only enough consecrated oil to keep the menorah burning for one day, but it топоmiraculously lasted for eight days. This miracle is commemorated during Hanukka by lighting the menorah for eight nights.

• Symbolism of Light:

  The rededication of the Temple and the miracle of the oil are seen as symbols of hope and resilience. The menorah’s light represents the triumph of good over evil and the enduring strength of the Jewish people.

The rededication of the Second Temple is a significant event in Jewish history, and it is commemorated each year during Hanukka with joy, gratitude, and the lighting of the menorah.

Observance: 8 nights and days

Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, beginning on the 25th day of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar. This eight-day period is significant for several reasons:

Miracle of the Oil:
The Talmud tells the story of a miracle that occurred during the rededication of the Second Temple. After the Maccabees reclaimed Jerusalem, they found that there was only enough consecrated oil to keep the menorah burning for one day. However, the oil miraculously lasted for eight days, giving the Jewish people time to produce more consecrated oil. This miracle is commemorated during Hanukkah by lighting the menorah for eight nights.

Symbolism of Light:
The menorah’s eight lights represent the triumph of light over darkness. During Hanukkah, Jewish people place the menorah in a prominent place in their homes and light one candle each night. The gradual increase in light from one candle to eight symbolizes the growing hope and resilience of the Jewish people in the face of adversity.

Spiritual and Communal Celebration:
Hanukkah is a time for spiritual reflection and communal celebration. Jewish families and communities gather together to light the menorah, recite prayers, sing songs, and exchange gifts. Traditional Hanukkah foods, such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), are also enjoyed during the holiday.

Cultural and Historical Significance:
The eight-day observance of Hanukkah also serves as a reminder of the historical and cultural significance of the holiday. Hanukkah marks a time when the Jewish people overcame oppression and persecution, and it is a celebration of Jewish identity and heritage.

Whether you are Jewish or simply interested in learning more about Hanukkah, the eight-day observance of this holiday is a time to reflect on the miracle of light, celebrate Jewish culture, and come together with loved ones.

Traditions: Lighting menorah, prayers, songs

During Hanukkah, Jewish people around the world observe a number of traditional practices, including lighting the menorah, reciting prayers, and singing songs.

Lighting the Menorah:
The most prominent Hanukkah tradition is the lighting of the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum. On the first night of Hanukkah, one candle is lit in the far right holder of the menorah. On each subsequent night, an additional candle is lit, until all eight candles are burning on the eighth night. The candles are lit using a special candle called the shamash, which is placed in the center holder of the menorah. The shamash is used to light the other candles, and it also provides additional light for the menorah.

Reciting Prayers:
Jewish people recite a number of prayers during Hanukkah, including the Hanukkah blessings and the Shema Yisrael. The Hanukkah blessings are recited before lighting the menorah each night, and they express gratitude to God for the miracles of Hanukkah. The Shema Yisrael is a central prayer in Judaism, and it declares the oneness of God.

Singing Songs:
Hanukkah is a joyous holiday, and it is customary to sing songs during the eight nights of the holiday. Some of the most popular Hanukkah songs include “Ma’oz Tzur” (Rock of Ages), “Hanukkah, Hanukkah,” and “Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel.” These songs tell the story of Hanukkah and express the joy and gratitude of the Jewish people.

These traditional practices help to create a warm and festive atmosphere during Hanukkah, and they are a way for Jewish people to connect with their heritage and celebrate the holiday with their loved ones.

Foods: Latkes, sufganiyot

Traditional Hanukkah foods include latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts). These foods are both delicious and symbolic, and they hold a special place in Hanukkah celebrations.

Latkes:
Latkes are a crispy, savory pancake made from grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and matzo meal. They are typically served with applesauce and sour cream. Latkes are a symbol of the oil that miraculously lasted for eight days during the rededication of the Second Temple. The hot oil in which the latkes are fried represents the miracle of the oil, and the crispy texture of the latkes symbolizes the strength and resilience of the Jewish people.

Sufganiyot:
Sufganiyot are deep-fried doughnuts filled with jelly or jam. They are typically dusted with powdered sugar and served warm. Sufganiyot are a symbol of the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucid Empire. The round shape of the sufganiyot represents the coins that the Maccabees used to pay for their oil, and the jelly filling symbolizes the oil that miraculously lasted for eight days.

In addition to latkes and sufganiyot, other traditional Hanukkah foods include brisket, kugel, and roasted chicken. These foods are often served at Hanukkah parties and gatherings, and they help to create a warm and festive atmosphere during the holiday.

Whether you are Jewish or simply interested in trying new foods, latkes and sufganiyot are delicious and symbolic Hanukkah treats that are sure to please everyone.

Historical Roots: Maccabees revolt

The historical roots of Hanukkah lie in the Maccabees revolt, a Jewish rebellion against the Seleucid Empire that took place in the 2nd century BCE.

• Background:

  In the 2nd century BCE, the Seleucid Empire ruled over the region of Israel. The Seleucids attempted to suppress Jewish religious practices, including the prohibition of Torah study and the observance of Shabbat. This led to growing resentment and unrest among the Jewish people.

• The Maccabees:

  In 167 BCE, a Jewish priest named Mattathias Maccabee led a revolt against the Seleucid Empire. Mattathias and his five sons, known as the Maccabees, fought bravely against the Seleucids for three years. Despite being greatly outnumbered, the Maccabees were victorious and recaptured Jerusalem in 164 BCE.

• Rededication of the Temple:

  After reclaiming Jerusalem, the Maccabees set about purifying and rededicating the Second Temple, which had been desecrated by the Seleucids. According to the Talmud, there was only enough consecrated oil to keep the menorah burning for one day, but it miraculously lasted for eight days. This miracle is commemorated during Hanukkah by lighting the menorah for eight nights.

• Symbolism and Legacy:

  The Maccabees revolt is a significant event in Jewish history, and it is seen as a symbol of Jewish resilience and the triumph of good over evil. Hanukkah commemorates the Maccabees’ victory and the rededication of the Second Temple, and it is a time for Jewish people to reflect on their history and heritage.

The story of the Maccabees revolt is an inspiring one, and it continues to resonate with Jewish people today. Hanukkah is a joyful holiday that celebrates Jewish identity and the enduring strength of the Jewish people.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the first day of Hanukkah in 2024:

Question 1: When is the first day of Hanukkah in 2024?
Answer 1: The first day of Hanukkah in 2024 is Friday, December 20th.

Question 2: How long does Hanukkah last?
Answer 2: Hanukkah lasts for eight nights and days, ending on the evening of Saturday, December 28th, 2024.

Question 3: What is the significance of Hanukkah?
Answer 3: Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem following its desecration by the Seleucid Empire, as well as the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days.

Question 4: How do people celebrate Hanukkah?
Answer 4: Hanukkah is celebrated by lighting the menorah, reciting prayers, singing songs, exchanging gifts, and eating traditional foods such as latkes and sufganiyot.

Question 5: What are some traditional Hanukkah foods?
Answer 5: Traditional Hanukkah foods include latkes (potato pancakes), sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), brisket, kugel, and roasted chicken.

Question 6: What is the historical background of Hanukkah?
Answer 6: Hanukkah commemorates the Maccabees revolt, a Jewish rebellion against the Seleucid Empire that took place in the 2nd century BCE. The Maccabees were victorious and rededicated the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

Question 7: Is Hanukkah a major Jewish holiday?
Answer 7: Yes, Hanukkah is one of the major Jewish holidays, along with Passover, Rosh Hashanah, and Yom Kippur.

Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about Hanukkah. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask a rabbi or other Jewish leader.

Now that you know more about the first day of Hanukkah in 2024, you can start planning how you will celebrate this special holiday with your loved ones.

Tips

Here are a few tips for celebrating the first day of Hanukkah in 2024:

1. Light the menorah:
The most important Hanukkah tradition is lighting the menorah. On the first night of Hanukkah, one candle is lit in the far right holder of the menorah. On each subsequent night, an additional candle is lit, until all eight candles are burning on the eighth night. The menorah should be placed in a prominent place in your home, where it can be seen by everyone.

2. Recite prayers and sing songs:
There are a number of prayers and songs that are traditionally recited and sung during Hanukkah. These prayers and songs express gratitude to God for the miracles of Hanukkah and celebrate the Jewish people’s victory over the Seleucid Empire. You can find the lyrics to many popular Hanukkah songs online or in a Hanukkah prayer book.

3. Exchange gifts:
Gift-giving is a popular Hanukkah tradition, especially among children. Hanukkah gifts are typically small and practical, such as toys, books, or gift cards. You can also give Hanukkah-themed gifts, such as menorahs, dreidels, or Hanukkah decorations.

4. Enjoy traditional Hanukkah foods:
Traditional Hanukkah foods include latkes (potato pancakes), sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), brisket, kugel, and roasted chicken. These foods are often served at Hanukkah parties and gatherings. You can find recipes for these dishes online or in a Hanukkah cookbook.

Closing Paragraph for Tips:
These are just a few tips for celebrating the first day of Hanukkah in 2024. With a little planning, you can make this a special and memorable holiday for you and your loved ones.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, the first day of Hanukkah in 2024 is a special occasion to come together with loved ones and celebrate the Jewish people’s victory over oppression and the enduring strength of the Jewish spirit.

Conclusion

The first day of Hanukkah in 2024 falls on Friday, December 20th. This eight-day holiday commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem following its desecration by the Seleucid Empire, as well as the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days.

During Hanukkah, Jewish people around the world celebrate by lighting the menorah, reciting prayers, singing songs, exchanging gifts, and eating traditional foods such as latkes and sufganiyot. These traditions are a way to remember the historical roots of Hanukkah and to celebrate the enduring strength of the Jewish people.

Hanukkah is a joyous holiday that is celebrated by Jewish people of all ages. It is a time to come together with loved ones, reflect on the past, and celebrate the present. As we approach the first day of Hanukkah in 2024, let us all take a moment to remember the significance of this holiday and to appreciate the many blessings in our lives.

Closing Message:

May the first day of Hanukkah in 2024 be filled with light, joy, and peace for all.