HANUKKAH CELEBRATES VICTORY OVER OPPRESSION

When the Jews faced a government decree that would abolish their religion, they had had enough of foreign domination. After a three-year struggle led by Judah Maccabee, the Jews were victorious over their Syrian oppressors and celebrated by rededicating the temple in Jerusalem to God.

The year was 165 B.C., and as the Jews cleaned the temple and removed Syrian idols, they came across just one container of oil for their holy lamps. Miraculously, the oil provided light for eight days.

This is the story of Hanukkah, which Jews around the world are celebrating this week. Each night during the celebration, also called the Feast of Lights or the Feast of Dedication, a candle on the menorah will be lit until there are eight bright lights.

It is a special and happy time for all Jews. Happy Hanukkah.