Hannukah-- Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, But it's Not

The Jews, led by five brothers and their father Judah Maccabee (meaning "hammer")launched a suprise attack on the King's army and after fighting for several years, were vicorious.

The Jews reclaimed the Temple, which was filthied and bereft of all its books, Torahs, and candlesticks. The Temple had to be rededicated -or restored.

The gold menorah remained. The menorah was a seven-branched lamp that was supposed to burn continuously. Unfortunately, only a drop of oil - enough to last only one day - was found.

The miracle of Hannukah is that the oil burned not for one day, but for eight days. This is why there are eight candles on the Hannukay menorah, plus a ninth candle (called the shammash - or "servant" candle, used to light the other candles).

The miracle of Hannukah is not a military one, but one that emphasizes the ability of people to overcome great odds, as did the Maccabees.

Happy Hannukah!

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