Story perspectives

Hanukkah Celebrations: Resilience and Hope Amidst Adversity

12/23/2025

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Communities Celebrate Resilience

Hanukkah celebrations concluded on December 22, 2025, with U.S. and Israel communities emphasizing resilience.
Rabbi Reuven Mintz of Newport Beach, Calif., emphasized gathering in the face of fear.
In Israel, survivors of the October 7 attacks found renewed hope.
Kibbutzim Nir Oz and Be'eri residents are returning and rebuilding.
Gadi Moses, a released hostage, said Hanukkah's light symbolizes a brighter future.

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Maccabees' Victory Celebration

Hanukkah began on December 14, 2023, and lasts for eight days, commemorating the Maccabees' victory over Greek oppression in the Second Century BCE.
Rabbi Mendel Liberow explains that the Greeks aimed to assimilate Jews, prompting their rebellion.
The holiday includes lighting a menorah, with each candle symbolizing a night of the miracle of oil lasting eight days.
Families prepare traditional dishes like latkes and sing Adam Sandler’s Chanukah Song.
Liberow states that the candles symbolize hope and love, reminding families that light can overcome darkness.

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Communities Celebrate Resilience

Hanukkah celebrations concluded on December 22, 2025, with U.S. and Israel communities emphasizing resilience.
Rabbi Reuven Mintz of Newport Beach, Calif., emphasized gathering in the face of fear.
In Israel, survivors of the October 7 attacks found renewed hope.
Kibbutzim Nir Oz and Be'eri residents are returning and rebuilding.
Gadi Moses, a released hostage, said Hanukkah's light symbolizes a brighter future.

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