Today marks the beginning of Chanukah, the Jewish eight-day festival of lights celebrating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. The origin of Chanukah is one of bravery, dedication, and perseverance that should be heralded by all, no matter your faith.

At the time, Syria’s Antiochus IV Epiphanes ruled over Israel, outlawed Judaism and attempted to impose the worship of Greek Gods over the Jewish citizenry. During this time, Antiochus slaughtered thousands of Jews and desecrated the Second Holy Temple of Jerusalem.

This led to what is now referred to as the Maccabean Revolt, which included a band of Jewish rebels led by Judah Maccabee. The woefully under-armed rebels fought for two years against Antiochus’ heavily armed forces before defying all odds and driving the Syrian army out of Jerusalem altogether.

After the Maccabean rebels retook the city, they cleansed the Second Holy Temple and relit the menorah, a nine-arm candelabrum that represents knowledge and creation, which is supposed to burn every night. Although they only had enough oil to burn the candles for one night, the candles remained lit for eight nights, leaving Jewish sages to proclaim the event a miracle and establish a yearly eight-day festival called Chanukah, which translates to “rededication” in Hebrew.

Whether you are Jewish or not, Chanukah is a reminder that the power of our convictions can overcome even the most insurmountable feats and that our dedication to what we hold sacred can prevail when we band together to fight against oppression.

Happy Chanukah and continue to fight the good fight.