Which Jewish festival commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple?

• A. Hanukkah
• B. Purim
• C. Passover
• D. Sukkot

Answer: (A)

Hanukkah remembers the rededication of the Second Temple after the Jews reclaimed it during the Maccabean revolt. When they purified and rededicated the temple, a small amount of consecrated oil was enough to keep the menorah lit for eight days, which is remembered as a miracle. That’s why the festival lasts eight nights and centers on lighting the menorah, retelling the story of the rededication, and sharing foods fried in oil. Purim tells of Esther saving Jews in Persia, Passover recalls the Exodus from Egypt, and Sukkot celebrates the Israelites dwelling in booths during their desert journey, so those celebrations are about different events.