Chandler-based Chabad of the East Valley commemorated the final night of Hanukkah with a public menorah lighting at the Maricopa Library and Cultural Center Thursday night.

Rabbi Mendy Deitsch shared blessings and songs as he lit candles on a menorah, symbolizing the eight nights of the holiday. It’s part of a reminder to share good in the world, he said.

“Each and every one of us brings light into this world,” Deitsch said. “We know that when we do something good, something kind for a fellow human being, we are pushing away the evil, the hate, the bad and the darkness in this world.”

Attendees were given candles and asked to help each other light them, reiterating the action of bringing light to others’ lives.

“When we bless one another, God blesses us in return,” Deitsch said.

For Mynita Boll, attending was a chance to reconnect with her heritage and served as a reminder of miracles. Her father was Jewish, but she grew up in the Christian religion.

“I didn’t really know a lot about the Jewish tradition,” she said. “But I like to participate when I can. For me, it’s a reminder of the miracle of life and helps us to remember what God has done for the people in the past.”

What is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah — also written as Chanukah — translates to “dedication” or “inauguration,” referring to the 139 B.C. rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem following a victory over the Syrians.

The eight-day festival celebrates this, and when a small container of oil burned in a menorah for eight continuous days instead of just one. This was considered a miracle and a sign that God was protecting His people, according to Chabad.com.

Observance of the holiday varies, but people typically commemorate these culturally significant moments with blessings and a nightly lighting of a menorah. Families also give gifts, play games and eat fried foods, such as latkes.

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