Members of the Rockaway community celebrated the start of Hanukkah with menorah lightings across the peninsula.
Members of the Jewish faith held ceremonies at three different locations in the Rockaways to celebrate the start of the major holiday. On Dec. 26, a Menorah lighting celebration was held at the Chabad of Howard Beach, located at 162-05 90th St, and the Belle Harbor Chai Center, located at 140-06 Rockaway Beach Blvd.
Local elected officials also participated in the celebration. On Dec 29, Council Member Joann Ariola, Temple Beth-el, and the West End Temple hosted their annual Hanukkah Celebration at Beach 116th St. Ariola was joined by Rabbi Rebecca Epstein of the West End Temple and Rabbi Matt Carl of Temple Beth-el as they lit the menorah.
Council Member Ariola told QNS that it is always a privilege to join in Hanukkah celebrations across District 32 “In honor of the faith, traditions, and incredible contributions of our Jewish friends and neighbors.”
“These events are a beautiful reminder of the strength we draw from our diversity and the shared values that unite us. I’m proud to represent an area where the Jewish community plays such a vital role in building a better, brighter, stronger district for everyone,” added Ariola.
Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah or the festival of lights, is an eight-day winter celebration marked by nightly menorah lighting, prayers and special dishes. It celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The story dates back to 164 BC, when a small group of Jews, led by Judah the Maccabee, reclaimed the Holy Temple from the Greek army. The group had only enough oil to light the menorah for a day, but it stayed lit for eight days despite the limited supply.
In celebration, Hanukkah is observed by lighting the menorah, which holds nine flames. The shamash, known as the “attendant,” is used to light the other flames. During the eight-day period, each flame is lit until all eight lights are kindled. Celebrants of Hanukkah also often eat fried foods since the miracle involves oil. Families eat potato pancakes called latkes and sweets, including jelly-filled donuts called sufganiyot.
