In a message posted on his website, the Polish president said that the festival of Hanukkah commemorates events more than two millennia ago "when the miraculous multiplication of oil in the Jerusalem Temple took place after the victorious Maccabean Revolt."
Duda noted that the celebration of Hanukkah "lasts for eight consecutive days" and marks a time when Jews "unite by the light of the menorah," in the company of family, friends and loved ones, "to recall this moving story that brings spiritual nourishment."
"I wish that celebrating Hanukkah together will give you much new strength and hope for the future," Duda said in his message.
He added: "May you spend these special moments in peace, joy and inner harmony. May the flame of the Hanukkah candles, as a unique sign of life and survival, as well as a symbol of the triumph of good over evil, accompany you every day. Have a Happy and Luminous Hanukkah!"
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is observed for eight nights and days. This year it began at sunset on Wednesday, December 25, and ends on the evening of January 2.
Hanukkah commemorates the 2nd century BCE victory of Judah Maccabee and his followers in a revolt in ancient Judea against the armies of the Seleucid Empire.
(gs)
Source: prezydent.pl