Topical Bible: Month: Chisleu (December)

◄ Month: Chisleu (December) ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Chisleu, also known as Kislev, is the ninth month of the Hebrew calendar, corresponding to late November and December in the Gregorian calendar. This month is significant in the biblical narrative and Jewish tradition, marking a period of transition from autumn to winter. The name "Chisleu" is derived from the Akkadian word "kislimu," which is associated with the onset of cold weather.

Biblical References:

Chisleu is mentioned in several passages of the Old Testament. One notable reference is found in the book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah 1:1 states, "The words of Nehemiah son of Hacaliah: In the month of Chisleu, in the twentieth year, while I was in the citadel of Susa." This passage sets the stage for Nehemiah's heartfelt prayer and subsequent mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, highlighting the month as a time of reflection and divine calling.

Another reference to Chisleu is found in the book of Zechariah. Zechariah 7:1 notes, "In the fourth year of King Darius, the word of the LORD came to Zechariah on the fourth day of the ninth month, the month of Chisleu." This passage introduces a message from God concerning justice, mercy, and the importance of sincere worship, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the month.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

Chisleu holds particular importance in Jewish tradition due to the celebration 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 following the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire. The festival begins on the 25th of Chisleu and lasts for eight days, celebrating the miracle of the temple's menorah burning for eight days on a single day's supply of oil.

Themes and Reflections:

The month of Chisleu, with its biblical and historical associations, invites reflection on themes of renewal, dedication, and divine intervention. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of aligning one's life with His purposes. The narratives associated with Chisleu encourage believers to seek God's guidance in times of challenge and to remain steadfast in their faith.

In summary, Chisleu is a month rich in biblical history and spiritual significance. It is a time for believers to remember God's past deliverances and to seek His presence and guidance in their lives, echoing the prayers and actions of figures like Nehemiah and the faithful remnant in Zechariah's time.

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Ezra 10:9
Then all the men of Judah and Benjamin gathered themselves together to Jerusalem within three days. It was the ninth month, on the twentieth day of the month; and all the people sat in the street of the house of God, trembling because of this matter, and for the great rain.
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Jeremiah 36:9,22
And it came to pass in the fifth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, in the ninth month, that they proclaimed a fast before the LORD to all the people in Jerusalem, and to all the people that came from the cities of Judah to Jerusalem.
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Zechariah 7:1
And it came to pass in the fourth year of king Darius, that the word of the LORD came to Zechariah in the fourth day of the ninth month, even in Chisleu;
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Library

Syriac Calendar.
... Month / Syrian / Hebrew. October / Tishri prior / Tishri, or Ethanim. November /
Tishri posterior / Bull, or Marcheshvan. December / Canun prior / Chisleu. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/unknown/the decretals/syriac calendar.htm

The Teaching of the Apostles.
... [3056] This month answers to Sivan, which began with the new moon of
June.--Tr. ... "The former Canun" is December, ie, Chisleu.--Tr. ...
/.../unknown/the decretals/ancient syriac documents the teaching 2.htm