Chanukah is the Jewish festival of lights. It’s origins go back around 2600 years to the days of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, or to be more precise the destruction of the second Temple by the Romans.
A 7 branch candelabra, known as a Menorah, was always kept alight in the Temple. This was the symbol of bringing the light of God into the world. When the temple was destroyed this golden Menorah was melted down by the invaders, and the light went out. Over time, a Jewish group, the Maccabees, defied the invaders and eventually liberated Jerusalem and the remains of the Temple, where they found many of the artefacts and religious symbols destroyed and gone, including the all-important Menorah.
They set about creating a new Menorah, made from simple materials, but they needed pure olive oil to light the wicks, and rekindle the light of God. Most of the olive oil had also been destroyed but one small bottle was found, enough for one day. The Maccabees lit the Menorah whilst they collected more olives to purify into oil, a process taking 8 days.
Many believe God looked down upon their dedication and through this single bottle of oil kept the Menorah alight for 8 days, until the pure oil was ready. This became the celebration of Chanukah – a celebration of lighting an additional candle over 8 days.
Jewish communities worldwide celebrate this festival of the triumph of light over darkness, by preparing and serving the special treats of doughnuts and “potato latkes” (rostis).
This year the first night was 7th December and the last night will be on 15th December.
We all hope and pray that the lighting of the Chanukah Menorah will bring renewed light and peace into the world.
Mr Brian Green, President of the Luton United Synagogue, said "During this season, all faiths, especially those of the Abrahamic origin: Judaism, Christianity and Islamic; should come together and celebrate the rekindling of God's light into the world and put aside our differences and celebrate our common heritages as mankind. Let us all hope for a peaceful and co-operative future, everywhere."
May the Chanukah lights of this year bring an end to all the darkness in the world!
The Chanukah Menorah (also known as a Hanukkiah) is lit by Mr Charles Ballin, a member of Luton United Synagogue to mark Chanukah celebrations – the Jewish Festival of Light