Hanukkah 2023: Date, Significance & All You Need To Know About The Jewish Festival

Hanukkah is a Jewish festival which celebrated with great joy by the community. It runs for eight days marking the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In 2023, also known as Chanukah, will be observed between December 7 to 15. Similar to how Diwali is said to be the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah also gets the same reference in Judaism.

The eight-day period starts on the 25th day of the Kislev month, according to the Hebrew calendar. Jewish people across the globe observe this festival with candles, prayers, and sweet items. The significance of the occasion lies in its rituals which include nightly candle lighting, cooking potato pancakes, and eating donuts. The usage of oil in food preparations is a must to mark Hanukkah.

Hanukkah & Christmas

The historical account of Hanukkah’s origin can be read in the books of 1 and 2 Maccabees, reported Baptist Standard while commenting that Christians may also celebrate the Jewish festival. As the occasion occurs in the same Gregorian calendar month of December, not only Jews but also Christians are open to celebrating it. Hanukkah is mentioned in the Holy Bible.

Hanukkah's reference in Friends

Interestingly, the popular sitcom 'Friends' also talks about the Jewish celebration. Remember David (played by Ross Geller) introducing little Ben to Hanukkah? In the hilarious and unforgettable scene showing the Holiday Armadillo, Ross not only wished "Happy Hanukkah" but also presented gifts to the young boy on the note of Christmas while stating that Santa was on leave and thus sent him to deliver the presents. That was when, no sooner, Ben replied saying, "I'm part Jewish."

Can't wait to rewatch the scene? Here you go. Check out the video below