Chanukah :: It’s More Than Eight Nights of Presents

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Growing up, my non-Jewish friends were fascinated with Chanukah because my parents gave me gifts for eight nights. Most agreed all those presents made up for not being on Santa’s list. (The jury is still out on this one for me because what my friends didn’t know is that at least five of those eight gifts were socks and underwear.)

But, of course, just like Christmas, Chanukah is not really about gifts.

Chanukah is often described as the Festival of Lights, celebrating the miracle that a one-day supply of oil burned for eight days. While this is certainly one facet of the holiday, the Hebrew word “Chanukah” literally means “dedication.” The story of Chanukah is aptly named because it is about the rededication of the Holy Temple after the Maccabees defeated the Greeks (who had appropriated the Temple and forbidden the observance and practice of Judaism).  

As I celebrate Chanukah with my toddler this year, I am enjoying his delight opening gifts, his awe seeing the candles on the menorah burn, and his giggles as the dreidel spins (and I’m enjoying my fill of fried foods – because, hello, fried foods!). But I also find myself in a different holiday mindset, reflecting on gratitude, freedom, light, and rededication.

Chanukah :: It's More Than Eight Nights of Presents | Columbia SC Moms Blog

Gratitude

Chanukah is a celebration of miracles: It is believed to be a miracle the menorah oil lasted for eight nights instead of one. While we may not all believe in miracles, I think we can all agree the unexpected does happen from time to time, and sometimes we’re incredibly grateful for it. As I watch the light from the menorah candles glow, I say thanks for the unexpected blessings in my life.

Freedom

The Maccabees fought the Greeks for their right to practice Judaism, for their freedom of religion. We are lucky in this country (for the most part) to be able to practice whichever religion or religions we choose – and we even have the freedom to not practice religion at all. This is a freedom not readily afforded in other places in the world, and Chanukah is a great reminder of what a privilege this freedom is.

Spreading Light

Unfortunately, there is a lot of darkness in our world. As Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” We light the menorah every night for eight nights, spreading the light more and more each day. This tradition of the Festival of Lights reminds us that we all the ability to spread light and drive out darkness. From random acts of kindness to standing up for the rights of our neighbors, these days leading up to the New Year are the perfect time to think about how we can be the light.

Chanukah :: It's More Than Eight Nights of Presents | Columbia SC Moms Blog

Rededication

Just as the Maccabees rededicated the Holy Temple, this is a time of year when a lot of us rededicate ourselves to our own practice of Judaism. But our reflection of our dedication shouldn’t stop at religion. What else do you want or need to rededicate yourself to? A person? Your budget? A good habit? This year, I’m thinking about how I can rededicate myself to my passion projects and self-care.

While Chanukah will always conjure up the brightness of candlelight and the taste of potato latkes, what these symbols represent provide important life reminders – no matter what your faith tradition is.

What are you reflecting on during Chanukah?

Photo credits: santheo via Foter.com / CC BY-NC ; JenCarole via Foter.com / CC BY-ND

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Cheryl Glantz Nail
The new mom of a baby boy, Cheryl Glantz Nail started her blogging and freelance writing career in 2008. She has written articles for several blogs and websites, including 24/Savvy and InterfaithFamily.com. Shortly after moving to Columbia, she turned her love of content writing and social media into a career in communications, currently serving as the Community Relations Director for a local non-profit. Prior to this career change, she enjoyed 10 years in education, both in the classroom and as a curriculum developer. When she isn't in front of her computer or wiping up baby drool, Cheryl can be found curled up with a young adult novel and a bowl of mint chocolate chip ice cream, looking at cats on Instagram, or attempting to be artsy. She blogs at Take a Second Glantz (www.secondglantz.com/blog), trolls Pinterest for recipes she'll probably never cook, and sleep tweets during late-night feedings.

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