By DENISE HERSCHEL
This year Hanukkah begins at sundown Wed., Dec. 25 and the last candle of the holiday will be lit on the evening of Wed., Jan. 1. Hanukkah, which is Hebrew for “dedication” is the Festival of Lights. It commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian Greek army and the subsequent miracle of rededicating the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and restoring its Menorah or lamp.
The miracle of Hanukkah is that only one vial of oil was found with just enough oil to illuminate the Temple lamp for one day and yet it lasted for eight full days.
Hanukkah is celebrated at home by lighting the Menorah, playing dreidel, and eating special foods unique to Hanukkah. Some people sing Hanukkah songs or exchange gifts after lightning the Menorah. Many people host and attend Hanukkah parties.
We asked several members of Congregation Agudath Achim in Bradley Beach what Hanukkah traditions they have or have kept throughout the years during this religious holiday.
Alaethia Doctor-Blech of Bradley Beach, who is married to Rabbi Ari Blech of Congregation Agudath Achim, said that Hanukkah is a beautiful holiday.
“There is something so aesthetic about it with all the candles. I converted to Judaism and I think Hanukkah is a very social holiday as well,” she said.
Doctor Blech said her family tradition includes each having their own Menorah to light and also reading the Torah by candlelight.
Neptune resident Barbara Bascom said Hanukkah traditions have changed in her home throughout the years.
“When my kids were little, we would light a candle for eight nights. Everyone came over and we would do a Hanukkah dinner which included fried potato pancakes, roasted chicken and jelly doughnuts. We played dreidel and gave out chocolate coins. Now we do a brunch for one day. We have lox and bagels, different fish and jelly doughnuts. We exchange gifts. I give to all my grandchildren,” she said.
Michelle Lynn of Bradley Beach said she and her son adore the holiday and enjoy baking and decorating cookies together.
“We also light the Menorah and play dreidel with yummy chocolate coins. My family has a huge gathering with siblings, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren at my mom’s house,” she said.
Congregation Agudath Achim will host a Hanukkah celebration Wed., Dec. 25 at 5 p.m. at Riley Park in Bradley Beach. All are welcome to attend.
