The Jewish festival of Hanukkah started last night at sundown and will be celebrated for 8 days. It is a joyous celebration commemorating the miraculous provision of oil necessary for the menorah in the Temple once it was restored and rededicated after desecration.

As Christians, the Jewish feasts and festivals reveal much about the Jewish foundation of our Christian faith. Biblically, we know that Jesus Himself is the fulfillment of the seven major Jewish feasts. Though Hanukkah is not one of those seven, Scripture tells us that Jesus and His family were in Jerusalem to celebrate Hanukkah, also known as the Feast of Dedication (John 10:22-42). In fact, Jesus used the occasion to assert His deity, so there is great significance to this celebration.

But, as believers, should we celebrate Hanukkah or Christmas?

Let’s turn to a Jewish believer in Jesus for expert commentary! Amir Tsarfati addresses that question in a very level-headed and encouraging way. Check it out!