Topical Encyclopedia Kislev is the ninth month of the Hebrew calendar, corresponding to late November and December in the Gregorian calendar. It is a month that holds significant historical and religious importance in Jewish tradition and is mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the context of post-exilic events.Biblical References: The month of Kislev is explicitly mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah 1:1 states, "These are the words of Nehemiah son of Hacaliah: In the month of Kislev, in the twentieth year, while I was in the citadel of Susa." This passage sets the stage for Nehemiah's concern for Jerusalem and the subsequent rebuilding of its walls. The mention of Kislev here marks the beginning of Nehemiah's narrative and his pivotal role in the restoration of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Historical and Religious Significance: Kislev is traditionally associated with the onset of winter in the land of Israel. It is a time when the rainy season begins, which is crucial for the agricultural cycle. The rains of Kislev are often seen as a blessing, essential for the growth of crops and the sustenance of the people. One of the most significant events associated with Kislev is the festival of Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights. Although Hanukkah is not mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, it commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire. The festival begins on the 25th of Kislev and lasts for eight days, celebrating the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the Temple's menorah, despite there being only enough oil for one day. Cultural Observances: During Kislev, Jewish communities around the world prepare for and celebrate Hanukkah. The lighting of the menorah, special prayers, and the singing of traditional songs are central to the observance. Foods fried in oil, such as latkes and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts), are commonly eaten to commemorate the miracle of the oil. Symbolism and Themes: Kislev is often associated with themes of light, hope, and divine intervention. The account of Hanukkah, with its emphasis on the triumph of light over darkness and the few over the many, resonates with the broader biblical theme of God's deliverance and faithfulness to His people. The month serves as a reminder of God's provision and the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity. In summary, Kislev is a month rich in historical and religious significance, marked by biblical events and cultural observances that continue to hold deep meaning for Jewish and Christian communities alike. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KISLEVkis'-lef (kiclew; the King James Version Chisleu, the Revised Version (British and American) "Chislev"): The 9th month of the Jewish year, corresponding to December. The word is found in Nehemiah 1:1 and Zechariah 7:1. The derivation is uncertain. Strong's Hebrew 3691. Kislev -- the ninth month of the Jewish calendar... Kislev. 3692 . the ninth month of the Jewish calendar. Transliteration: Kislev Phonetic Spelling: (kis-lave') Short Definition: Chislev. ... Kislev. 3692 . ... /hebrew/3691.htm - 6k Library Marriage of the Blessed virgin to Joseph Christ's Birth The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem Appendix v. Rabbinic Theology and Literature The Cleansing of the Temple - the Sign,' which is not a Sign. The Child-Life in Nazareth The Immaculate Conception The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Thesaurus Kislev (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia KISLEV. ... See CALENDAR. Multi-Version Concordance Kislev (2 Occurrences). Nehemiah 1:1 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hacaliah. ... /k/kislev.htm - 7k Kishon (6 Occurrences) Kislon (1 Occurrence) Chisleu (2 Occurrences) Chislev (2 Occurrences) Resources What is Hanukkah? Should a Christian celebrate Hanukkah (Christmaskah)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the structure of the Jewish calendar? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Kislev (2 Occurrences)Nehemiah 1:1 Zechariah 7:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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