Was the Chanukah miracle a seven-day or an eight-day occurrence? Why is the holiday celebrated for eight days rather than seven? There's a wealth of discussion on this topic.

The menorah, a seven-branched candelabrum, is the oldest symbol of the Jewish religion and modern symbol of the State of Israel. A nine-branch variation is used for the observance of Chanukah - the Festival of Lights.

The true miracle of the war was simply the way it began. Good intelligence, foresight and planning allowed for the Israeli army to carry out a pre-emptive strike on the enormous enemy forces. The timing had to be right.

This year, when celebrating the joy of Chanukah, we must make it more than a superficial effort and remember those who fought and found the oil to light our way.

Chanukah is the only Jewish holiday that commemorates an ancient national liberation struggle in the Land of Israel, particularly Judea and Samaria.