The way some families celebrate it it basically is. It's a celebration to commemorate a revolt where the Jewish people reclaimed a temple that the Greeks defiled. When they rededicated it there was enough oil for one day that miraculously lasted 8 days. You're supposed to celebrate and reflect on the miracle. It's always included treats for the children, but anything that looks like eight days of Santa Claus is basically as you suggest.
From what I read Hanukah was never meant to be a major holiday in the Jewish religion. No one really cared for it until they saw it as an alternative to Christmas.
My Jewish friend says that Hannakah was just made up so Jewish boys didn’t feel bad about not getting gifts at Christmas.
Q: What do Jewish children get every year for Christmas?
A: Jealous.
The way some families celebrate it it basically is. It's a celebration to commemorate a revolt where the Jewish people reclaimed a temple that the Greeks defiled. When they rededicated it there was enough oil for one day that miraculously lasted 8 days. You're supposed to celebrate and reflect on the miracle. It's always included treats for the children, but anything that looks like eight days of Santa Claus is basically as you suggest.
From what I read Hanukah was never meant to be a major holiday in the Jewish religion. No one really cared for it until they saw it as an alternative to Christmas.
Well then 🤔 in true traditional form, how about beginning Hannakah with one day's worth of oil .. aaand celebrating until the oil runs out?