Admiralty House opened it’s doors on Thursday 19th, for a celebration of Hannukah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, where I joined my Jewish colleagues for some thought provoking conversations. But missed out on the traditional sufganiyot (sweet jelly-filled doughnuts). On my way home I took to google.com to increase my faith literacy about the history of Hannukah.
In my new role as Co-Chair of the CSMN, my aim is to increase my own knowledge and practice of inclusion and strive hard to help enable this for our networks and colleagues, making the CS the most inclusive employer for all. And our Networks working to enhance and amplify the voice of all members.
The word Hanukkah means 're-dedication' and is a celebration of the greatest miracles in Jewish history. What was the miracle? Over 2 thousand years ago,(165 BC) the Jews had a military victory against the Greeks to practice their faith. The Greek King Antiochus commanded the Jewish people bow down in front of a statue of him that had been placed in the Jewish temple, and pray to Greek Gods, but they refused. The Maccabees, a small group of Jews, fought against idol worship for, three year’s until they won. During this period their Jewish temple was destroyed. To celebrate their victory they repaired the temple, lit an oil lamp in it. However, there was only enough oil to burn the candle for one day, but miraculously it burned for eight days. This is why the menorah has 8 candles, Hanukkah lasts for eight days, fried foods are enjoyed and why light is really important in this celebration.
This year Hannukah falls after sunset on the 22nd December to 30th December. So, when you see 8 hannukiahs lit, remember to grab a sufganiyot as a treat !
Nuzhat Ali
Co-Chair CSMN
