December 11, 2002
J. Iaco Shapiro wants to remind us of the story of Chanukah. "Most of you know the story or at least in part however I am amazed how many thought that it was Crisco or Wesson (oil) etc. No my friends, Chanukah is about Kosher Israeli Olive Oil: The story of Chanukah took place long ago during the time when the second Temple stood in Jerusalem and cruel Greeks (of that generation) ruled the Land of Israel. They robbed the Jews of their property and set up idols in the Holy Temple. The Jews were in great distress, but the Greek armies were very mighty and no one could stand against them. Eventually the Jewish people rose up against their enemies and drove them from the land.
On the 25th of Kislev, when the Jews re-entered the Temple, they wanted to kindle the Menorah, but there was no pure oil. The Greeks had made all the oil impure. The people looked and looked. At last they found a single small jar of pure olive oil, just enough for one day. They did not know if they should light the Menorah or not, or wait till they could get kosher oil. In the end, they decided to light the Menorah anyway. Miraculously, it burned for eight days, until new olive oil could be brought. This is why every year we celebrate Chanukah for eight days, beginning with the 25th of Kislev.
Mr. Shapiro suggests that those giving Chanukah gifts use Genuine 100% pure extra-virgin Olive Oil from www.IsRoilOliveOil.com.
The Olive Oil Source suggests checking out the many olive oil companies which may be right in your back yard for a gift. See Olive oil by CA county or Olive oil by how certified to search for kosher California olive oils.