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Chanukah: The traditions
The tradition of dreidels
The dreidel is a four-sided spinning top with a different Hebrew letter on each side telling the Chanukah message: a great miracle happened there. Each player places pennies, candy, raisins, M&Ms or nuts into the kitty.Players take turns spinning the dreidel.
“Nun” means nothing. You win nothing, you lose nothing.
“Gimel” means you take the whole kitty.
“Hay” means you win half of what’s in the kitty.
“Shin” means “put in.” You lose and must put one more into the kitty.
Chanukah: The history behind the holiday
Judea was then ruled by Antiochus, a Syrian king, who ordered everyone living in his kingdom, including the Jewish people, to reject their religion and worship Greek gods instead. Antiochus insisted that all Jews in his kingdom become Greek. When Jews resisted, Antiochus banned their holidays, burned their books and killed anyone who would not bow to the Greek gods.
Chanukah: The festival of lights
Ask adults what reminds them of Chanukah and they will instinctively list candles, dreidels, latkes and menorahs. For most, Chanukah—eight days of songs, games, candlelight and delicious foods—generates wonderful childhood memories.
Chanukah at BJBE is also memorable for all who participate. As with all services, the evening is filled with prayers, songs and storytelling. What makes this night unforgettable is each person holds a candle as we sing. It is a festive atmosphere as children and adults are equally delighted to share in such a heartwarming event.