Lighting Activities: Hanukkah and the Menorah

Hanukkah is also called the Festival of Lights. The word Hanukkah is a Hebrew word, that means dedication. Hanukkah is a dedication to the Holy Temple. It is a Jewish tradition that lasts for 8 days and 8 nights. The date is determined by a secular calendar, which starts on the 25^th month of Kislev, which is one of the Jewish months. Each year Hanukkah falls on a different day since the Jewish calendar is lunar based.

The Greeks came into the sanctuary and defiled the oils that were there. The Hasmoneans fought the Greeks after that, and later defeated them. Once the Greeks were defeated the Hasmoneans set out to find the oils. When they got there the Hasmoneans only found one jar of oil. The jar contained a sealed of the High Priest. A jar of oil should of only lasted and burned for one day. It was claimed to be a miracle because that one jar burned for eight days. Later the Rabbis designated those eight days as a holiday. Today it is known as Hanukkah, and also know as the Festival of Lights.

Hanukkah is celebrated with the Hanukkah Menorah. The Menorah has eight candles that are light for each night of the Festival of Lights. The light of the Menorah is always done from the left side to the right side. During each night when a candle is light, a blessing is always said at the same time. Today, there are many styles of Menorahs that are available. Though all the Menorahs are based upon the same principals and have 8 candles to be lit for each night of Hanukkah. Background of Hanukkah Modern Celebration of Hanukkah Hanukkah Celebrations Hanukkah Traditions What is Hanukkah? Chanukah Presentations for Kids and Adults The Festival of Lights Hanukkah Menorah

One of Hanukkah's popular games is spinning the dreidel. The dreidel is has four sides that spins around. It also has Hebrew letters around the outside. There are variety of games that can be found online for kids to play. Today's game surrounding Hanukkah teach kids the meaning behind Hanukkah, why it is important and the reason behind the celebration. Games are a great tradition for kids to do year after year, while learning the fundamentals of Hanukkah. A child can never have too much knowledge. Making a subject fun to learn about, especially a holiday, creates a love. Kids should love the holiday and should remember it year after year while celebrating it with family and friends. Hanukkah Games and Activities Hanukkah Games Hanukkah Party Ideas The Festival of Lights and The Dreidel Game Hanukkah for Kids Hanukkah Games and History Chanukah Games

Kids can learn about Hanukkah through a variety of activities. There are many songs surrounding Hanukkah, as well as making decoration or other types of crafts. Kids can color Menorahs, or make crafts that resemble Menorahs. Scrapbooks can be a great way for a family to talk about Hanukkah and create special memories for the future. Families along with their children can decorate a chandelier light fixture with Menorahs. Chandeliers are a focal point in many dining areas which are utilized every day, decorating them adds great support to these special days. Activities are a great way for parents to interact with their kids when it comes to learning new things. It teaches kids the importance of holidays, while teaching them the fundamentals behind them. Kids love new activities and games, so it is a great opportunity for kids to learn while having a good time. After all, that is the best time for kids to learn something new, without them even know that they are doing something educational. Kids can learn the story behind the Festival of Lights. They can also learn about why the Festival of Lights is called Hanukkah, as well as why the Rabbis thought it was so important for the Hanukkah to be remembered and recognized each year.

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During a special holiday, such as Hanukkah many parents, teachers, and kids like to read books. There are a variety of books out there in regards to Hanukkah. Most books will teach kids the story behind the holiday, and why it is celebrated today.

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Article Written by Colby McTwain