Hanukkah: History and Traditions

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday celebrated for eight nights. It commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. The holiday originated from a Jewish revolt against Syrian oppression led by Judah Maccabee. Traditions include lighting the menorah, playing dreidel, and giving gelt. Hanukkah is a time for Jewish families to celebrate their faith and reflect on their resilience.

What is the primary symbol of Hanukkah?

• A Star of David

• A Christmas tree

• A menorah

• A dreidel

Under which rule were the Jewish people living before Antiochus IV?

• Roman

• Babylonian

• Egyptian

• Persian

What was the ultimate insult by Antiochus IV to the Jewish people?

• Taxing them heavily

• Forcing them to speak Greek

• Seizing the Jewish holy Temple

• Banning Jewish rituals

Who led the Jewish revolt against the Syrian armies?

• King David

• Antiochus IV

• Judah Maccabee

• Moses

What miraculous event is celebrated during Hanukkah?

• The fall of Jericho

• The parting of the Red Sea

• The burning bush

• The menorah burning for eight nights

How many candles does a menorah hold?

• Eight

• Ten

• Nine

• Seven

What is the Hebrew meaning of Hanukkah?

• Light

• Victory

• Dedication

• Faith

What does the menorah symbolize for the Jewish people?

• Wealth

• Knowledge

• Power

• Indomitable faith

What is the dreidel used for during Hanukkah?

• Cooking traditional food

• Lighting candles

• Decorating the house

• Playing a game

What is a common modern-day practice during Hanukkah due to its proximity to Christmas?

• Fasting

• Lighting fireworks

• Gift-giving

• Building a sukkah