December 19

Hanukkah Hymn

Traditional

Hanukkah is the Jewish Feast of Lights.  In 165 B.C., after a three-year struggle, the Jews defeated the Syrian tyrant Antiochus IV and re-took the Temple in Jerusalem.  They cleansed the Temple of Syrian idols but found only one cruse of oil with which to light their holy lamps.  Miraculously the oil lasted for eight days.  In memoriam of this event, the eight candles of the menorah are lit, one candle every day.  During Hanukkah, gifts are exchanged and contributions made to the poor.  Hanukkah begins on the eve of the 25^th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev and usually falls in December.  This Hymn expresses the praise, joy and hope that accopanied the cleansing of the Temple.  It is also appropriate to express the praise, joy and hope that accompanies the celebration of the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Rock of Ages, let our song

Praise Thy saving power;

Thou, amidst the raging foes,

Wast our sheltering tower.

Furious, they assailed us,

But Thine arm availed us,

And Thy word

Broke their sword

When our own strength failed us.

Kindling new the holy lamps,

Priest approved in suffering,

Purified the nation’s shrine,

Brought to God their offering.

And His courts surrounding,

Hear, in joy abounding,

Happy throngs

Singing songs

With a mighty sounding.

Children of the martyr race,

Whether free or fettered,

Wake the echoes of the songs,

Where ye may be scattered.

You’re the message cheering

That the time is nearing

Which will see

All men free

Tyrants disappearing.