I. Introduction
A. Attention-getter: How many of you have ever played dreidel? (spin dreidel on visualizer)
B. Reason to listen: CMU is rich in the diversity of people, cultures and religion. As such, it is important to gain a good grasp on the cultures of those around us.
C. Thesis statement: Hanukkah is a holiday with great tradition and meaning.
D. Credibility statement: I have celebrated Hanukkah all my life, and have also researched from many published books and peer-reviewed journals.
E. Preview of main points:
1. First, I will discuss the ancient roots of Hanukkah.
2. Second, I will share the traditions that surround the holiday.
3. And last, I will explain how the holiday is still practiced today.
II. Hanukkah is a holiday with great
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The Hallel is a prayer recited traditionally at four holidays in the Jewish religion, one being Hanukah. ii. In its entirety, the Hallel is composed of six psalms, which the congregation cheerfully rejoices in to pay tribute to, and praise God.
Transition: So far, I have discussed the ancient roots of Hanukkah and the early traditions that followed. Now, I will talk about how Hanukkah is celebrated in today’s society.
C. Hanukkah continues to be practiced and celebrated in modern day.
1. Dreidel
a. A dreidel is a wooden top, like the one I began my speech with, with four letters inscribed on it. “Hay,” “Shin,” “Nun,” and “Gimmel.”
b. In essence, it is a gambling game often played with chocolate coins.
c. The tradition did not begin at the time of the Miracle of lights, but over the years has been assimilated into the culture of Hanukah.
d. Many, like Rabbi David Golinkin (N.D) in “The Surprising Origin of the Dreidel,” believe that the dreidel provides a way to celebrate the Jewish cultural history.
2. Hanukkah Bush
a. While many Christians rejoice around decorating the Christmas tree, many American Jews have found refuge in the Hanukkah bush. An item that they can decorate and display, while still enjoying our