Yeshua and Hanukkah: A Deeper Connection

Yeshua and Hanukkah are often seen as separate—one a winter tradition and the other the center of our faith. However, the story goes far deeper. Hanukkah is more than candles, dreidels, and remembering a miracle. At its core, it is a celebration of being set apart, refusing to conform to the world, and standing for truth—even when it costs everything.

A few years ago, I read the full account of Hanukkah in the Book of Maccabees. It completely changed how I understood this celebration. When I lined it up with Matthew 24, the prophetic picture of Yeshua and Hanukkah became impossible to ignore. The connection between the Maccabees, the abomination of desolation, and Yeshua’s warning suddenly came into focus.

Hanukkah and Matthew 24: Yeshua Makes a Prophetic Connection

Amidst the swirling smoke and fiery embers, a soldier stands prepared for battle, embodying one of the signs of beginning of the end.

In Matthew 24, the disciples asked Yeshua what signs would mark the end of the age. His answer is sobering:

• Many will come in His name—do not be deceived.

• There will be wars and earthquakes—but this is only the beginning.

• Believers will face hatred, betrayal, persecution, and lawlessness.

• The love of many will grow cold.

• The gospel will be preached to all nations—then the end will come.

  
  

Then comes the verse that mirrors the events of Chanukah:

“When you see the abomination of desolation… standing in the holy place—whoever reads, let him understand.” (Matthew 24:15)

This instantly brings us back to the days of the Maccabees. The holy place was defiled, and the faithful fled into the mountains—the same imagery Yeshua uses. He warns that false messiahs will attempt to deceive even the elect, if it were possible.

He then describes unmistakable signs of His true return: the sun darkening, the moon losing its light, stars falling, and the heavens shaking. And then:

“He will send His angels… and they will gather His elect from the four winds.”

We do not ascend to Him—He gathers us. Just as in the days of Noah, unbelievers will be caught unaware.

Why the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) Matters for Believers Who Follow Yeshua

Yeshua walking in Solomon's Colonnade surrounded by attentive listeners.

As believers in Yeshua/Jesus, the Feast of Dedication—Chanukah—carries deep meaning. We are called to walk as He walked, and Scripture records that Yeshua Himself celebrated Chanukah.

John tells us that:

Yeshua was walking in Solomon’s Colonnade during the Feast of Dedication. (John 10:22–23)

During this very celebration, the people asked Him directly if He was the Messiah and to tell them plainly. Yeshua responded by revealing a profound truth:

“I and the Father are one.” (John 10:30)

This moment is powerful. Yeshua could have avoided the question, but instead, He chose Chanukah as the setting to declare His unity with the Father.

His participation in this feast confirms:

• He affirmed the historical truth of the Maccabees’ account.

• He willingly celebrated Hanukkah.

• He used the feast to reveal more of who He is.

• And as a result, many believed in Him (John 10:40).

  
  

For disciples of Yeshua today, Hanukkah becomes a beautiful reminder of identity, dedication, courage, and allegiance to the God of Israel—just as Yeshua lived it.

Hanukkah is About Looking Forward—Not Just Backward

Children captivated by the warm glow of Hanukkah candles, their eyes filled with wonder and joy.

Remembering the faithfulness of God—His miracles, His deliverance, His protection—is beautiful and important. Lighting candles, spinning dreidels, and retelling the story of Chanukah is meaningful.

But Scripture calls us not only to look back, but also to look ahead.

We are called to watch for His return. To stay awake. To remain set apart. To resist assimilation.

As Paul writes:

“Be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” (Romans 12:2)

Chanukah reminds us what happens when God’s people refuse to blend into the culture around them—and how He preserves those who remain faithful.

The Importance of Teaching Children About Hanukkah

Teaching children about Hanukkah is a wonderful opportunity to instill values of faith, courage, and identity. When we share the story of the Maccabees, we are not just recounting history; we are passing down lessons of resilience and dedication.

Children can learn that standing for what is right often comes with challenges. They can understand the significance of being set apart and how it relates to their own lives. By engaging them in activities like lighting the menorah or playing dreidel, we create lasting memories that connect them to their heritage.

Creating Meaningful Traditions

Traditions are the threads that weave our family stories together. As we celebrate Hanukkah, we can create meaningful rituals that resonate with our values. This could be as simple as sharing a meal, telling stories, or even crafting decorations together.

Encouraging children to participate in these traditions fosters a sense of belonging and connection. They learn that these practices are not just rituals; they are expressions of faith and love.

Free Hanukkah & Feast Day Downloads for Your Children

Free Hanukkah printable available for members, featuring a menorah to customize with cut-out flames for each night of the celebration.

If you haven’t joined my Members Community yet, now is the perfect time!

Inside, you’ll find:

• Preschool activity sheets

• Crafts and hands-on projects

• Handwriting pages teaching the authors of the Bible

• Four printables that pair with Big HOORAYS – God’s Creation Days and a craft

• Feast Day printables for every Biblical feast

• Bonus holiday pages, including Hanukkah and Purim

  
  

➡️ All downloads are free for members on my Members Page. Just log in and start printing!