Day 35/40 Light in the Darkness - The Christian Meaning of Hanukkah
- Margit Kresin
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Hanukkah: The Festival of Lights and its origins
Hanukkah, the "Festival of Lights," commemorates a remarkable era in the history of the people of Israel, when the Maccabees dedicated the Temple after their victory over the Syrian-Greek rulers. A particularly moving event was the Miracle of the Oil: despite using only a small amount of pure oil, the menorah burned for eight days—a shining symbol of God's faithfulness and hope. Traditional festivities include lighting the menorah each evening, eating oil-fried foods such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (doughnuts/pastries), and playing dreidel. This year, the festival will take place from December 14 to 22, 2025. On December 14, 2025, exactly 77 years and 7 months will have passed since the founding of Israel on May 14, 1948.
For us Christians, Hanukkah is more than a historical commemoration: it is a living calling to be bearers of light ourselves, like Jesus, who came as the true light of the world. In the midst of challenges and darkness, Hanukkah calls us to remain steadfast in faith and hope and to carry the message of light and salvation into the world. Thus, this festival becomes not only a celebration of the past, but also an inspiration for our path in the present and the future.
Especially during this time, Hanukkah invites us to reflect on our calling: Jesus, the light of the world, calls us to be bearers of light ourselves. Just as the central shamash candle of the menorah lights the other candles, we too are called to pass on the light of Christ and illuminate the darkness around us. Jesus says, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14) The rededication of the Temple by the Maccabees reminds us to dedicate our lives—our “temple”—to God and to allow ourselves to be continually filled anew with his Spirit. The miracle of the oil shows that even in times of need and weakness, God works with his power and his light.
The Miracle of Oil – Symbolism for the Holy Spirit
Oil is a profound symbol: In the Bible, oil represents the Holy Spirit (Ruach HaKodesh). For centuries, oil has been used in Jewish tradition to anoint kings, priests, and prophets. It is also a symbol of the Messiah, the "Anointed One," sent by God to redeem the people. Jesus refers to himself as the Anointed One and brings the oil of joy, healing, and liberation into the world.
Jesus, the Light of the World – Our Christian Calling
As Christians, we are called to actively combat the spiritual darkness in our surroundings. Our good works, our love, and our faith should become visible to others so that they may recognize God's glory. The light we receive from Jesus is not meant for ourselves alone, but should shine through us into the world.
Passing on the light: Christian responsibility in dark times
Especially during Hanukkah, we want to remember: Each of us can be a light in the darkness. Let your light shine – through words of hope, acts of love, and a life that reflects God's presence. In this way, together we become a shining message in an often dark world. As Christians, we are called to actively combat the spiritual darkness around us. Our good works, our love, and our faith should become visible to others so that they may recognize God's glory. The light we receive from Jesus is not just for ourselves, but is meant to shine through us into the world.Passing on the light: Christian responsibility in dark times
Hanukkah is not only a festival celebrating the historic rededication of the Temple, but also a time to reflect on the light and joy that Jesus brought into the world. The Christian meaning of Hanukkah reminds us how believers, as "little lights," are called to spread God's light throughout the world. As a Christian, you are called to be a light for the world—let yourself be filled with God's Spirit and bring hope, joy, and love to where there is darkness!
During this special Hanukkah season, we warmly encourage you to support the work of Glaubensbotschaft with a donation. Your contribution helps to spread light and hope and to carry the Christian message into the world. Together we can achieve so much – thank you for your support!
You can find more information about Hanukkah on our website under God's Holidays.
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