Chag Urim Sameach (Happy Festival of Lights) to everyone who celebrates Hanukkah!
The Origins of Hanukkah
Hanukkah is a Jewish festival commemorating the recovery of Jerusalem and subsequent rededication of the Second Temple at the beginning of the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE. It is also known as the Festival of Lights.
When and How Hanukkah is Observed
Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. This year, Hanukkah is observed from sunset on Sunday, November 28 to nightfall on Monday, December 6.
The Hanukkah menorah (or hanukkiah) is a nine-branched candelabrum lit during the eight-day holiday of Hanukkah. Eight of the nine branches hold lights that symbolize the eight nights of the holiday; on each night, one more light is lit than the previous night, until on the final night all eight branches are ignited. The ninth branch holds a candle, called the shamash ("helper" or "servant"), used to light the other eight.
The Meaning of the Word Hanukkah
The word Hanukkah or Chanukah means “dedication,” and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple.
How to Wish Someone a Happy Hanukkah
There are several ways in which you can wish someone a Happy Hanukkah, including "Happy Hanukkah!" or one of the following:
- Chag Sameach (Happy Holiday): This saying is not limited to Hanukkah and can be used during any Jewish holiday;
- Chag Urim Sameach (Happy Festival of Lights); or
- Hanukkah Sameach (Happy Hanukkah).
Hanukkah: The Festival of Lights at the MFA (Virtual Event)
Wednesday, December 1 at 6:00 p.m.
Join the Jewish Arts Collaborative in its 7th year partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, in 2021's unique curatorial presentation, which pairs one-of-a-kind artwork pieces from the MFA Judaica collection with innovative artists, who are building inspired compositions, choreographies, and performances based on these unique objects in the Judaica collection.
Virtual Festival of Lights Event Registration