Chabad House menorah lighting to be held

Published on November 30, 2007

Chabad House will hold its annual menorah lighting ceremony to celebrate Chanukah Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. on the Amherst Common. The event, which is free and open to the public, includes dreidels, Chanukah gelt, a raffle with prizes for all ages, free doughnuts and hot cocoa.

Chanukah celebrates the miraculous victory of the Jews against the Assyrian Greeks, during the period of the Second Temple, more than 2,000 years ago.

After the military victory, the Jews wished to rededicate the temple in Jerusalem and begin lighting the seven-branched temple menorah. They were able to find only one usable jar of specially prepared olive oil, enough to last for one day.

Miraculously, the menorah remained lit for eight days, until new oil could be produced. The sages of that generation established the yearly celebration by lighting menorahs, one light for each day of the miracle.

In addition, a family Chanukah party will be held Dec. 9 at 2 p.m. at the Chabad House, 30 North Hadley Road. The party includes crafts, games, refreshments and menorah lighting.

For information, call 549-2008.