The Maccabees ruled Israel for 100 years. In the end they became as corrupt as previous rulers. Soon God removed His hand of blessing from His beloved city. Enemies arose and began to threaten Israel. The king turned to Rome, an emerging power. Eventually the guest turned against the host and Rome absorbed Israel.
We don’t understand God’s ways. It looked as though the enemy had retreated. But instead, life got much worse for Israel. Antiochus sought to divide the people. He persecuted and tortured those who remained faithful to YHWH and extended favor and benefits to those who would turn away from God.
The story is foreshadowed in Daniel Chapters 10-12. The prophecy is so accurate some people believe that it was written AFTER the event. But the prophecy was not fully completed, evidence that it will be completely fulfilled in the future.
December 18th, the Jewish people (and some Christians) lit the first of the eight candles on the Hanukkah menorah. Actually there are nine candles, but one is always separated in some way. That “special” candle is called “The Servant” candle. The Servant candle is lit and then lights all the other candles. So now let’s consider the history of Hanukkah.
Soon, the world will celebrate two different but linked holidays – Christmas and Hanukkah. The first candle of Hanukkah is lit at sundown on December 28th.
We don’t understand God’s ways. It looked as though the enemy had retreated. But instead, life got much worse for Israel. Antiochus sought to divide the people. He persecuted and tortured those who remained faithful to YHWH and extended favor and benefits to those who would turn away from God.
December 18th, the Jewish people (and some Christians) lit the first of the eight candles on the Hanukkah menorah. Actually there are nine candles, but one is always separated in some way. That “special” candle is called “The Servant” candle. The Servant candle is lit and then lights all the other candles. So now let’s consider the history of Hanukkah.
The Maccabees ruled Israel for 100 years. In the end they became as corrupt as previous rulers. Soon God removed His hand of blessing from His beloved city. Enemies arose and began to threaten Israel. The king turned to Rome, an emerging power. Eventually the guest turned against the host and Rome absorbed Israel.
Many people believe that Hanukkah celebrates a miraculous provision of a little bit of oil that lasted for eight days. Hence, the holiday is celebrated for eight days and a candle is lit on each night. While that might have happened, there is no historical record of such a miracle.
Soon, the world will celebrate two different but linked holidays – Christmas and Hanukkah. The first candle of Hanukkah is lit at sundown on December 28th.
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