JUDAISM AND HANUKKAH

TRADITION  Vary from country to country and even from family to family  In general: Menorah is a candelabra with spaces for 9 candles One set apart from the rest in some way (bigger, in front, etc.) This candle called the “Shamas” or assistant One candle is lit each of the eight nights of Hanukkah One on the first and adding another each night This commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem and the “miracle of Hanukkah.” As the candles are lit, 3 blessings are sung in Hebrew Heads are covered during the blessings as a sign of respect for God

TRADITIONS (CON’T)  After the lighting of the candles: Story-telling Play dreidle game (a wagering game played with a 4-sided top) Sing songs Giving of coins to the children Changed now to giving of presents – sometimes one each night with a big present on the final night.

TRADITIONAL FOODS Potato “latkes” (pancakes) “Sufganiot” (doughnuts) These foods are eaten because they are fried in oil which commemorates the “miracle” of the oil lasting eight days.