Tonight is the first night of Hanukah. What is Hanukah all about? And how does it relate to Stephen Covey's "The 8th Habit"? You've got questions, we've got answers.
N.B. One answer those links don't convey, but which I often find myself explaining to non-Jewish friends, is what a minor holiday Hanukah is in the Jewish calendar. Honestly, if it wasn't close to Christmas I bet most Jews wouldn't even know what it was. But we're grateful for all of the holidays given to us, and especially joyous ones like this.
Joe, here is David's truly beautiful explanation of Hanuka -- he says Hanukah is most important for children-- do you agree? :)
At the very least, it's a good excuse for eating latkes.
If we were dealing solely on a Jewish calendar, then I'd say that other holidays would probably be an even bigger deal for children: Purim, or Simchat Torah perhaps.
On a Christian calendar, Hanukah gains strength with the children because of its timing, and inherits the mantle of the season.
No point bemoaning this - it is so, and an enjoyable holiday for children is a wonderful thing. If Hanukah's timing around the holiday season helps create a fun, no pressure holiday that gives children an opportunity to enjoy and appreciate their Jewishness, then hallelujah and pass the latkes!
Next step... dreidel beyblades!
"What is Hanukah all about?"
That's easy. Same answer as always: It's all about oil!
Naah, Hanukah is like all Jewish holidays: they tried to kill us, we survived, let's eat!