Hanukkah (Day 2) in Israel
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Learn about Hanukkah (Day 2) in Israel
It is the Festival of Lights or Hanukkah, one of the most significant holidays for the Jews across the globe. Hanukkah Day 2 carries on the merriment and activity associated with this eight-day Jewish holiday, especially in Israel, where it is celebrated with very profound cultural and religious importance.
In Hebrew, to "Hanukkah" means "to dedicate." Hanukkah commemorates the reconsecration to the Second Temple in Jerusalem (in the second century B.C.). It became a renewal celebration following the Maccabees Revolt against the Seleucid empire. It is a moment for thankfulness and memory by celebrating the miracle in which the menorah of the Temple burned for eight days despite having initially only sufficient purified oil for one day.
Hanukkah Celebration (Day 2)
When It Is Occurred
Hanukkah starts on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, which is usually found between late November to late December based on the Gregorian calendar. Thus, Hanukkah lasts for eight days, with the second day of this celebration being this day full of activities and gatherings with family and friends.
Traditions
The families in Israel continue adding one more light to a menorah, along with the shamash (helper candle), to mark the second day of Hanukkah. This progressive lighting depicts the brightening and hope surrounding this blessed time. Usually, the menorah is hung or placed at conspicuous sites of houses, windows, and even public locations so that many people can enjoy the beautiful spirit of the occasion.
- Gastronomy: The ideal features of Hanukkah include very delicious meals, mainly fried foods signifying the miracle for the oil. Families enjoy eating sufganiyot and latkes together as they share stories that have been passed down from generation to generation.
- Play and Sing-along: The traditional Jewish spinning top, dreidel, is a game that speaks well of classical Hanukkah. It is freely enjoyed by many children as well as adults. Each of the song lines "Maoz Tzur," sung during the festival, add to the atmosphere surrounding the celebration.
Public Life During Hanukkah (Day 2)
Status of Schools, Banks, and Museums
Practical life for all public holidays in Israel is Hanukkah, but it does not a national public holiday. Therefore, schools and businesses including banks and museums do not open for Hanukkah. Many schools also hold programs and activities for the children, focusing on themes of the holiday through plays, concerts, and arts and crafts.
Community Events and Highlights
During Hanukkah, and particularly on Day 2, such public events and celebrations abound. Streets are decorated with lights and different ornaments, and public menorah lightings are commonplace and usually presided over by community leaders with attendance by many people.
The Historical Importance of Hanukkah
Hanukkah narrates a history of faith and resilience, a story of the victory of light over darkness. The Maccabees were a tiny revolt of Jews who fought against the oppressive rule of the dictator Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who wanted to impose every Hellenistic culture upon the practice of Jews. Their victory and the miracle of the Temple's oil created their core story of Hanukkah.
This event reminds them all the time of religious freedom and identity because of their existence. It is the time for the Jewish people at this time that is found in Israel or anywhere else in the world to reflect on their heritage as well as preserving cultural and religious traditions.
Conclusion
For example, Hanukkah (Day 2) in Israel expands this already great and glorious time of remembrance. While a happy time for families, food, and tradition, this is also a time to remember triumphs past and spiritual strength. Whether you're in Israel or some other part of the world, this brings with it the wonderful experience of participating in the joy and light that has been treasured through the ages.