American spirit of Hanukkah

American identity, revolution, and religious freedom are practically synonymous. So in a way, Hanukkah (Chanukkah) could be considered quintessentially American.

The story begins during the reign of Alexander the Great and his Persian empire. A conqueror, yes, but one who didn’t interfere with religious exercise. So Jews (and anyone else) in Palestine were free to practice their faith with relative autonomy. Under such benevolent rule, over time some blending occurred, with the conquered assimilating Hellenistic culture — adopting Greek language, customs, and dress.

The bonhomie didn’t last long after Alexander’s death. The succeeding Ptolemaic dynasty allowed Jews self-rule, but with Antiochus IV came drastic change. He massacred and oppressed, prohibited all but his own religion, and placed a Hellenistic priest in charge of the temple in Jerusalem, driving home his point by desecrating it first.

The people didn’t just stand by and take it. You’ve probably heard of the Maccabees and Pharisees, two groups who joined in revolt against Antiochus. Their revolution succeeded, and that’s how we get to Hanukkah. Hanukkah commemorates rededication of the temple to the Jewish faith.

No; that’s not quite right. The rededication was the timing, but Hanukkah specifically celebrates what the faithful believe was the miracle of the menorah. In the temple was a candelabrum whose candles burned with an oil supply to be refurbished daily. Despite a supply of oil sufficient for only a day, somehow this menorah stayed lit for eight days and nights. Why do we see nine candles in modern menorahs? The middle one is to light the rest.

It’s a beautiful tradition celebrated this week, but Hanukkah is less important in Jewish faith than Christmas is to Christians. Of bigger religious significance are Rosh Hashanah (the new year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) in the fall, and Passover in spring. Culturally, however, its winter timing with so many other religious and historical traditions has made it a festive, family holiday.

We at The Press wish our Jewish brothers and sisters a very Happy Hanukkah.

Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. Contact her at Sholeh@cdapress.com.