Jewish community celebrates Chanukah, explains holiday
JACKSON, Tenn. — A congregation gathered Friday night in Jackson to celebrate the fourth night of Chanukah. “The word comes from the Hebrew meaning ‘to dedicate’, and it reflects to the time of the Maccabees, about 150 to 180 years before the time of Jesus,” Cantor John Kaplan said. Chanukah is a time to celebrate a victory in Palestine when the Maccabees fought over their right to worship how they wanted. Kaplan said the Jewish holiday has not always been a big deal. “All the other Jewish holidays are found within the Torah to tell us when to celebrate… but Chanukah does not,” Kaplan explained. When the Jews were ready to re-light the sanctuary after their victory, they only had enough oil to burn the light for one night, but it burned for eight. That is where the holiday comes from. As Judaism moved to America, Kaplan said Chanukah became a much bigger celebration for those of the Jewish faith, as Christmas is for Christians. “As the season became much more, then it had to find its way within that time period as well for the Jewish kids,” Kaplan said. With presents and traditions, it continues to be a part of the light each holiday season. “Everybody’s in a good mood,” board member David Cohen said, “so you’re looking forward to seeing your friends and participating in all the functions.” Kaplan said the intent of the holiday is for families to be together and share the story of illuminating everyone’s light, and helping the poor. Congregation B’nai Israel finished their celebration Friday with a traditional Jewish meal.
