Hanukkah Begins with Nationwide Celebrations

Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, begins on December 25 this year, coinciding with Christmas for the first time since 2005. The holiday commemorates the Maccabean revolt and the miracle of the oil, marked by menorah lightings and community gatherings across the U.S., with events in Worcester and Charlotte drawing large crowds. Rabbi Yossi Shemtov emphasizes Hanukkah's message of resilience and the victory of light over darkness, a sentiment echoed by Rabbi Yaakov Menken who describes it as a stand against 'wokeness' and a call to uphold traditional values. Despite a significant rise in antisemitic incidents reported by the Anti-Defamation League, Jewish communities remain committed to celebrating openly, with events like Mitzvah Day encouraging volunteerism and charity. The Chabad of Charlotte highlights the importance of public celebration while ensuring safety with measures like pre-registration and security at events. This year's holiday serves as a reminder of the enduring strength and faith within Jewish traditions.