Feast of Dedication

2018
Feast of Dedication
Debra Nielsen

This ornament is called the Feast of Dedication, also known as the Festival of Hanakkah.  This Jewish festival is also called the Festival of Lights, so how appropriate that when this ornament is placed in the light, the tips of the candles look as though they are lit! Another visual teaching element to this ornament are the branches and the roots. They remind us, and the Jewish people, that our faith has been handed on to us by many witnesses and previous generations. The branches are above the blue Star of David, referring to those alive today, carrying on the tradition, while the roots under the star point to those who went before. Nevertheless, all are connected through the same faith. 

Although it is fairly obvious why this day is called the Festival of Lights, since the centerpiece of the 8 days includes the ritual lighting of the menorah, why is it also referred to as the Feast of Dedication?  In fact, the Hebrew word "Hanakkah" or "Chanukah" translates to "dedication," signifying the importance of the dedication. 

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