Last Day of Hanukkah in Australia

The last day of Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by Jewish communities in Australia in a manner similar to other parts of the world. Hanukkah lasts for eight days, commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century BCE, where Jews rose against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt.

History and Traditions:

• Miracle of Oil: The central miracle associated with Hanukkah is that a single day's supply of oil miraculously lasted for eight days during the temple's rededication.
• Menorah: Each night of Hanukkah, a candle is lit on a special candelabrum called a menorah or hanukkiah. By the last day, all eight candles are lit.
• Dreidel Game: A traditional game played during Hanukkah involves spinning a four-sided top called a dreidel.

Activities on the Last Day:

• Candle Lighting: Families light the final candle on the menorah, often followed by singing traditional songs such as "Maoz Tzur."
• Prayers: Special prayers are recited, including Hallel (praises) and an additional prayer (Al HaNissim) added to daily prayers and grace after meals.
• Feasting: Foods fried in oil, like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), are enjoyed to remember the miracle of oil.
• Gifts and Gelt: It's common for gifts or 'Hanukkah gelt' (chocolate coins or real money) to be exchanged during this holiday.

In Australia, due to its multicultural nature and religious freedom, Jewish communities freely celebrate Hanukkah. Public menorah lightings can be seen in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. The last day often involves family gatherings where these traditions are observed to mark the end of this festive period.