Learn about Hanukkah in the US
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| Hi everyone, I'm Alisha. |
| Hanukkah is the most popular Jewish holiday in the United States. It falls on a date determined by the Jewish calendar, but is often very close to Christmas, making for a natural association between the two holidays. It's also called the "Festival of Lights" and commemorates the rededication of the Temple by the Maccabees in the second century BC. |
| A particular toy is associated with Hanukkah. Do you know which one? |
| We’ll show you the answer at the end of this video. |
| Hanukkah is one of the most important Jewish holidays and is one that most people in the United States are very familiar with. The distinctive menorah, a candelabra that is kindled as part of the celebration, is commonly associated with the holiday by most people, Jewish or otherwise. Giftgiving is also sometimes a part of this holiday. |
| Even though Hanukkah is not as widely celebrated as Christmas in the United States, it's a holiday that most people are cognizant of and many non-Jewish people who have Jewish friends do participate in it to some extent. The holiday is also sometimes celebrated by secular Jews, to keep the holiday season alive for nonreligious reasons. |
| The name "Festival of Lights" comes from the story behind Hanukkah. According to tradition, the lights in the temple were able to keep burning for eight straight days, despite only having enough oil to keep burning for a day. This tradition is remembered today by the lighting of the menorah. This is the Hanukkah tradition with which most non-Jewish people are familiar and the menorah is widely known in the United States as an emblem of Jewish people. |
| A Hanukkah gelt is a small quantity of money traditionally given at this time of year. Chocolate coins, though they possess no monetary value, have become popular over the years, as well. |
| And now here's the answer to the quiz. |
| Do you know which toy is associated with Hanukkah? |
| The dreidel, a particular type of top with which a game is associated is a traditional activity for children during this time of year. The dreidel is very commonly recognized as a symbol of the Jewish people in the US. |
| How was this lesson? Did you learn something interesting? |
| Are there any holidays with religious significance in your country? |
| Please leave a comment at EnglishClass101.com |
| Until next time! |
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