“Blessed are You, Hashem our G-d, King of the universe, Who has wrought miracles for our forefathers, in those days as in this season.” (Traditional Hanukkah blessing)

"Hanukkah" is the eight-day festival that commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Greek invaders of the land of Israel, led by Antiochus IV, who defiled the Beit HaMikdash. Once liberated, there was only a small portion of oil for the Menorah, enough for one day.

A miracle occured which kept the oil burning for eight days, the exact amount of time needed for new oil to be made. In this painting, the eight candles of the Menorah are at the bottom of the star, while the shammus, the candle that is used to lights the others, is at the top.

This painting is featured in the hardcover art book entitled "Hebrew Illuminations" written by Adam Rhine and Louise Temple.