Here is a primer for Hanukkah 2018, which begins Dec. 2

The Festival of Lights, Hanukkah, will begin at sunset Sunday, Dec. 2 and be celebrated until Dec. 10. Here is a look at the origins and some traditions of the observance.
Spelling?
Is it Hanukkah or Chanukah? There is no definitive rule. Hanukkah is the most widely used, but Chanukah is often the favorite of traditionalists. By the way, there might be a dozen other ways to spell it. Hanukkah means “dedication.”
Ancient origins
In 167 B.C., the area known today as Israel was occupied