[RERUN] What is Hanukkah?

This week marks the start of Hanukkah, so listen to our rerun episode that looks at the history and customs related to the annual Jewish festival which falls in December each year. It's often known as the festival of Lights, and its origins go back as far as 22 centuries! The celebration is synonymous with commemorating a miracle. According to rabbinic tradition and ancient texts, Hanukkah represents the victory of the Jewish people over Greek invaders. In the 2nd century BC, Jewish peoples only accounted for a small portion of the vast territory governed by Greek king Antiochus IV. He ordered a campaign of repression against the Jewish religion, in favour of Hellenisation, meaning assimilating Greek traditions. He forbade rites and customs like circumcision, the Shabbat and even reading the Torah. What did the Jewish community do? What happened next? How is Hanukkah celebrated? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier? How can I choose the perfect gift, according to science? Why is the latest wave of Covid-19 destabilising the Chinese regime? A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance. In partnership with upday UK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices