The festival of Hanukkah (meaning "dedication") marks the re-dedication of the Temple after its desecration under Antiochus IV. Hanukkah commemorates the "Miracle of the Oil".

According to the Talmud, at the re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem following the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucid Empire, there was only enough consecrated olive oil to fuel the eternal flame in the Temple for one day. Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days - which was the length of time it took to press, prepare and consecrate new oil.

Hanukkah is celebrated by lighting one candle on the chanukiah each night for 8 nights (until all are lit). An extra candle called the shamash (meaning servant) is used to light the other candles. Click here for more information.