In a message posted on his website, the Polish president said that the celebration of Hanukkah "presents an excellent opportunity to offer greetings and warm wishes to the entire Jewish community in Poland."
He added: "By subscribing to the warm words which you traditionally exchange in this period, I wish you the best of health, peace and prosperity."
Duda noted that the festival of Hanukkah commemorates events more than two millennia ago when Jewish warriors "defeated their enemy and defended the freedom of their nation."
He said the recollection of those events gave contemporary generations "strength and comfort for the future."
The Polish president also said: “May the Hanukkah light, a permanent symbol of rebirth and triumph, accompany you in the implementation of all your new plans. May the mood of a joyful celebration strengthen you in true happiness. Let these special days emanate light and homely atmosphere … Happy Hanukkah!”
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is observed for eight nights and days. This year it began at sunset on Thursday, December 10, and ends on the evening of December 18.
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/pk)
Source: prezydent.pl