How to with Beth Tikvah

3–5 minutes

Celebrating Hanukkah in Reform Judaism

Hanukkah is one of the most joyful, recognizable, and symbol-rich holidays on the Jewish calendar. But beyond the dreidels and latkes lies a deep story about identity, courage, and renewal—one that Reform Judaism invites us to interpret through the lens of justice, hope, and spiritual resilience.

This month’s How-To explores what Hanukkah means, how we observe it, and why its light continues to shine so brightly in Jewish life today.

The Story & Meaning of Hanukkah

The Hanukkah Story

Hanukkah is an 8-day festival that recalls the Maccabees reclaiming the Temple in 164 BCE and the miracle of the single jar of oil that lasted eight days. The story centers on military victory and spiritual rededication. The miracle reminds us that even small acts of courage can create lasting light. We are taught that because Hanukkah grew within post-biblical tradition, its rituals evolved over centuries, giving Reform communities room to interpret the holiday with creativity and meaning.

Spiritual Themes

Reform Judaism emphasizes the values at the heart of the holiday—identity, perseverance, and moral courage. Rather than glorifying battle, our tradition elevates the ongoing work of rededication in our own lives: standing proudly as Jews, practicing gratitude, and acting for justice. Hanukkah invites each of us to “increase the light” in tangible ways.

Lighting the Menorah

How to Light the Hanukkiah (Menorah)

Menorah is a Hebrew word meaning “candelabrum” and refers to the nine-branched ceremonial lamp in which the Hanukkah candles are placed and blessed each night of the holiday. The nine branches include eight branches, one for each day of the holiday, and one branch for the shamash candle that is used to light the other candles. In ancient times, oil was used in the menorah. Over time, candles were substituted for oil. We light the hanukkiah for eight nights, increasing the candles one by one—based on the Talmudic principle that holiness should always increase. Click here to see Hanukkah Blessings.

Reform Practice & Personal Meaning

A central theme of the holiday is pirsumei nisa—publicizing the miracle. Many families place their hanukkiah in a window to share its light outward. Reform Jewish homes often enhance candle lighting with modern readings, music, or values-based reflections—connecting ancient stories to contemporary acts of courage, justice, and gratitude.

Rituals, Food & Traditions

Food Fried in Oil

From crispy latkes to sufganiyot, Hanukkah foods are fried in oil to honor the miracle of the oil lasting eight days. Jewish communities worldwide have distinct versions—like Sephardic bimuelos, Greek loukoumades, or Moroccan sfenj.

Dreidel, Symbols & Meaning

The dreidel’s letters—Nun, Gimel, Hei, Shin—stand for “A great miracle happened there.” Historically, the game may have served as a playful cover for Jewish learning during times of oppression. Today it symbolizes creativity, resilience, and joy.

Gifts Through the Reform Lens

Gift-giving is a modern custom shaped by contemporary culture. Reform communities encourage meaningful practices—experience-based gifts, handmade items, or dedicating one night to tzedakah. See the Social Justice Gift Guide.

Beyond “I Have a Little Dreidel”

Listen to our Playlist!

There is no shortage of music for Hanukkah—just take a look at Spotify or another music streaming service, and you will find more music for this minor holiday than for many major ones! The variety is astounding, from global traditional choral music to non-traditional ensembles from Jewish communities in Israel and the U.S.; from modern a cappella and parody songs to children’s music by solo artists; from songs in Yiddish and Ladino to instrumentals by klezmer groups.

This Hanukkah season, consider choosing a different genre or artist for each of the eight nights and see what you discover. There is something for every mood and taste to accompany a latke dinner and beyond. Our very own Julie Sapper has created a Hanukkah music playlist on Spotify, which can be accessed by clicking the button below!

Hanukkah Spotify Playlist

Bringing Light into our Community

At Congregation Beth Tikvah, Hanukkah is a celebration of shared light—through our annual Latkefest, festive community Hanukkah celebration, and moments of connection that bring warmth to our community. Reform Judaism encourages lighting not just candles, but lives—through tzedakah, acts of kindness, and social justice. Many families adopt the tradition of donating one night’s “gift” to organizations in need.

Hanukkah reminds us that even a small flame can change the world. It invites us to rededicate ourselves to Jewish life, to community, and to hope that grows brighter with each night.