For Immediate Release
December 7, 2004
Hanukkah, 2004
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America
I send greetings to all those celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of
lights.
On the 25th day of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar, Jews around the
world commemorate the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem more than
2,000 years ago. During this time of darkness, the Temple had been
seized, and Judaism had been outlawed. Judah Maccabee and his
followers fought for three years for their freedom and successfully
recaptured Jerusalem and the Temple. Jewish tradition teaches that the
Maccabees found only one small bottle of oil to be used for temple
rituals, but that oil lasted eight days and nights. The miracle of
this enduring light, remembered through the lighting of the Menorah,
continues to symbolize the triumph of faith over tyranny.
The bravery of the Maccabees has provided inspiration through the
ages. We must remain steadfast and courageous as we seek to spread
peace and freedom throughout the world. This holiday season, we give
thanks to God, and we remember the brave men and women of our Armed
Forces and their families. We also pray that all who live under
oppression will see their day of freedom and that the light of faith
will always shine through the darkness.
Laura joins me in wishing you a blessed and Happy Hanukkah.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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