In a message posted on his website, the Polish president said: “On the occasion of Hanukkah, I would like to extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to the Jewish community in Poland.”
He added that the Jewish festival of Hanukkah “is a joyful time that reminds us of the triumph of light over darkness and of good over evil. It reminds us of the love of freedom when, more than 2000 years ago, the Jewish people stood up in arms to defend their religion and customs.
"And it reminds us of the miracle that took place in the Temple in Jerusalem after the victory of the rebels. Now, for eight consecutive days, gathered around a burning menorah, you and your loved ones will remember this moving story from the past.”
Duda also said: “May the Hanukkah candles bring joy and warmth, highlighting this beautiful tradition, which is an inseparable part of the great heritage of the Republic of Poland … Happy and Bright Hanukkah!”
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is observed for eight nights and days. This year it began at sunset on Sunday, December 22, and ends on the evening of December 30.
Hanukkah commemorates the 2nd century BCE victory of Judah Maccabee and his followers in a revolt in ancient Judea against the armies of the Seleucid Empire.
(gs)
Source: prezydent.pl