Chanukah Quiz: Exploring Values

Why did Matisyahu and his sons live in caves?

• To escape the Greek army

• To celebrate Chanukah

• To hide from their neighbors

• To study Torah in secret

What phrase did Matisyahu shout after slaying the man who stepped forward to offer a pig?

• “Mi Kamocha Ba’eilim Hashem”

• “Shema Yisrael”

• “Mi LaHashem Eilay”

• “Chazak Ve’ematz”

The Greeks demanded the Jews bring olive oil as a sacrifice to their gods.

• True

• False

What did Matisyahu instruct his sons before his death?

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Answer explanation

Before his death, Matisyahu instructed his sons to always remember their roots and the importance of faith, emphasizing the values of love, unity, and spirituality.

What does the olive tree symbolize in King David’s writings?

• Strength and wisdom

• Resilience and continuity

• Beauty and holiness

• Peace and prosperity

Why is the blessing that children should be like olive trees meaningful in Jewish tradition?

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Answer explanation

In Jewish tradition, the blessing that children should be like olive trees symbolizes strength, resilience, and the ability to thrive in adversity, reflecting the values of growth and continuity in family and community.

The olive tree can survive drought, disease, and fire.

• True

• False

What does the olive tree’s ability to sprout new shoots symbolize?

• Wealth and prosperity

• Generational continuity

• A new beginning

• Peace among nations

Why should the shamash candle be higher than the others?

• It represents the highest mitzvah

• So it’s clear that the other lights are not for practical use

• To remind us of the Kohen Gadol’s service

• To fulfill the mitzvah of pirsumei nisa (publicizing the miracle)

A menorah can only be made of pure gold.

• True

• False