The joy and spirit of Chanukah, the Jewish festival of lights, has been described by an 11-year-old boy as members of his synagogue got together to celebrate this week.
The eight-day festival, which began on Wednesday (27) commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire of the Second Century.
Following the battle the oil in the temple was only expected to last for one day but instead lasted for eight which is why eight candles are lit each night in a special nine-branched Menorah (candelabra).
Max Flanagan, aged 11, from Ealing Liberal Synagogue, wanted to share his thoughts about the festival.
He said: “Chanukah means fun, happiness, joy and of course food. During Chanukah I spend a lot of time with my family and close friends. My favourite food at Chanukah are latkes (fried potato cakes) and other fried things.
“We also get presents but, as much as I want presents, it isn't central to Chanukah at all. We only have presents so it lets little kids have something to look forward to, obviously they aren’t as knowledgeable as their elders about Chanukah.
“I love celebrating Chanukah at my synagogue, as we always have a party with games like spinning the dreidel (top). It's always so much fun. All my friends and I have a great time. We also have to remember the story of Chanukah and of course we have our service.
“When I was small I used to want to be a Maccabee. They were fierce Jewish soldiers who never fled from the battle and overthrew the Greek emperor in the story of Chanukah. The festival of lights is a celebration for eight days and eight nights where we light the candles of the Menorah.
“Jews believe the candles lasted that long in the temple a long time ago, even though there was only enough oil for one night. Sometimes I bring my cat Dexter, to light the candles with us but he dislikes fire. This Chanukah I am in a play at the synagogue. All in all, Chanukah is a fun festival and every year I look forward to it.”
The synagogue's rabbi, Janet Burden said: “I am proud of Max's description of the history and observance of Chanukah, which was indeed instituted to celebrate the Maccabean revolt. If it simply marked an ancient military victory, however, I think the festival might have become irrelevant to later generations.
“The core message of Chanukah transcends the historical circumstances. It teaches us the importance of standing for something and having the courage of our convictions. It encourages us to be true to ourselves and our traditions. As we light the Chanukah menorah, adding a candle each night, we affirm our duty as individuals and as a people to increase light in the world.
“Happy Chanukah and a joyous festival season to come for our Christian neighbours.”
The congregation is holding a special play to celebrate the festival at their synagogue in Lynton Road, West Ealing on Sunday (Decem
