The Feast of Dedication, also known as Hanukkah, is a Jewish festival commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century B.C. It is celebrated for eight days, beginning on the 25th of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which typically falls in December. The festival is not mentioned in the Old Testament, as its origins are found in the intertestamental period, specifically in the events recorded in the books of 1 and 2 Maccabees, which are part of the Apocrypha.

Historical Background

The Feast of Dedication finds its roots in the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire. In 167 B.C., the Seleucid king Antiochus IV Epiphanes desecrated the Jewish Temple by erecting an altar to Zeus and sacrificing swine on it, an act that was abhorrent to the Jewish people. This led to a revolt led by Judas Maccabeus and his brothers, who successfully recaptured Jerusalem and the Temple. In 164 B.C., they cleansed and rededicated the Temple to the worship of Yahweh. The festival of Hanukkah was established to commemorate this miraculous victory and the rededication of the Temple.

Biblical Reference

The Feast of Dedication is mentioned in the New Testament in the Gospel of John. John 10:22-23 states, "At that time the Feast of Dedication took place in Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple courts in Solomon’s Colonnade." This passage indicates that Jesus observed the festival, which underscores its significance during His time.

Significance and Observance

The Feast of Dedication is marked by the lighting of the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum, with one candle lit on each night of the festival. This practice commemorates the Talmudic tradition that a small flask of oil, enough to last only one day, miraculously burned for eight days during the rededication of the Temple. This miracle is central to the celebration of Hanukkah and symbolizes the enduring light of faith and divine providence.

In addition to the lighting of the menorah, the festival is celebrated with special prayers, hymns, and the recitation of Psalms. Traditional foods such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts) are enjoyed, often fried in oil to commemorate the miracle of the oil.

Theological Implications

For Christians, the Feast of Dedication holds theological significance as it reflects themes of light, dedication, and divine intervention. The presence of Jesus at the festival, as recorded in the Gospel of John, highlights His role as the Light of the World (John 8:12) and the ultimate fulfillment of the Temple's purpose. The festival serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the call to dedicate one's life to His service.

The Feast of Dedication, while rooted in Jewish history and tradition, offers Christians an opportunity to reflect on the themes of rededication and the enduring presence of God amidst trials and challenges.