As the sun sets on December 9, 2025, the Jewish community in Chico, California, begins to celebrate Hanukkah, a festival known for its rich traditions and profound significance. This year, local rabbis, including Rabbi Lisa Rappaport of Congregation Beth Israel and Rabbi Mendy Zwiebel of the Chabad Jewish Center, have shared their insights into the holiday that commemorates the miracle of the oil and the triumph of the Maccabees over the Syrian Greeks.
The origins of Hanukkah date back to when the Maccabees reclaimed the desecrated Holy Temple in Jerusalem. After their victory, they found only enough oil to keep the eternal flame burning for one day. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days, which is why Hanukkah is celebrated for that duration. Rabbi Zwiebel emphasized the importance of this miracle, noting that it symbolizes the strength of a small group standing up against a powerful oppressor.
Understanding the Miracles of Hanukkah
Rabbi Rappaport elaborated on the three miracles she associates with Hanukkah: the lasting oil, the Maccabean victory, and the restoration of the Temple. The holiday’s name, Hanukkah, translates to “dedication,” reflecting the Maccabees’ actions in reclaiming and purifying their sacred space.
Despite its popularity, there are misconceptions about Hanukkah’s significance within the Jewish calendar. Rabbi Zwiebel explained that Jewish holidays generally fall into two categories: those that require refraining from work and those that involve commemorative actions. Hanukkah is among the less strict holidays, allowing observants to engage in regular work while remembering the festival each day.
Many associate Hanukkah with Christmas, leading to the misconception that it is the primary Jewish holiday. In reality, the most important observance is lighting the menorah, which consists of nine candles—eight for each night and one, the shamash, used to light the others. Each evening, an additional candle is added until the final night when all are illuminated. Rabbi Zwiebel highlighted that the message of Hanukkah resonates deeply, emphasizing that “a little bit of light dispels a lot of darkness.” This notion fosters family unity and warmth.
Publicizing the Miracle and Celebrating Traditions
Public displays of the menorah are an important aspect of Hanukkah, allowing families to “publicize the miracle.” Rabbi Zwiebel noted that menorahs should be placed in windows or other visible locations to share the holiday’s significance with the community. While there is no specific time for lighting the candles, it should occur after sunset and ideally earlier in the evening to maximize visibility.
Rabbi Rappaport addressed the challenges some community members face regarding the public display of their faith amid rising antisemitism. She noted a divide within her congregation: some feel compelled to conceal their Jewish identity, while others advocate for a strong public presence. “Now more than ever we have to be strong and not hide who we are,” she said.
Food also plays a significant role during Hanukkah. Traditional treats include gelt, gold-wrapped chocolate coins that teach children about charity, a core value in Judaism. The dreidel game, played with gelt, has different letters representing phrases about the miracles in Israel and the diaspora. Rabbi Rappaport pointed out that Hanukkah may seem straightforward, but it is rich in layers of meaning.
Both rabbis plan to celebrate with traditional foods such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts), emphasizing the importance of oily foods as a reminder of the miracle of the oil. Congregation Beth Israel will hold its annual Hanukkah party on December 21, 2025, at 15:00, featuring food, music, dancing, and games. Interested participants can register by calling 530-342-6146 or visiting cbichico.org.
The Chabad Jewish Center has planned multiple events for Hanukkah, beginning with a celebration at City Plaza tonight at 16:00. This event will include music, treats, ice skating, and a menorah lighting. Additionally, there will be a menorah lighting at Trinity Commons on December 11, 2025, featuring Chico State President Steve Perez. More information is available at jewishchico.com, and those seeking candles and menorahs can text 530-848-3264.
Molly Myers, an active member of Chico’s Jewish community, has participated in meaningful holiday celebrations at both the Chabad Jewish Center and Congregation Beth Israel, illustrating the vibrant communal spirit that characterizes this special time of year.
