[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 51 (Monday, December 26, 2005)]
[Pages 1897-1898]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Message on the Observance of Hanukkah 2005

December 19, 2005

    I send greetings to all those celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of 
lights.
    More than 2,000 years ago, the Jewish people led a revolt against 
oppressors who forbade them to pray, study the Torah, or observe their 
religious customs. Led by Judah Maccabee and fueled by their faith, 
their small army triumphed over tyranny. When they reclaimed the 
desecrated Temple and prepared it to be purified and rededicated, the 
holy oil that should have lasted only one day instead burned for eight 
days. During Hanukkah, Jews around the world honor this miracle by 
lighting the menorah, a symbol of hope shining through darkness.

[[Page 1898]]

    As Jewish Americans prepare to light the Hanukkah candles this year, 
we give thanks for God's many blessings and His watch and care over our 
Nation. We remember our many military families and ask God's special 
blessing on those who have lost loved ones in freedom's cause. We are 
grateful for the courage and commitment of America's men and women in 
uniform and pray for their safety as they serve around the world to 
spread peace and liberty.
    Laura and I send our best wishes for a joyful Hanukkah.
                                                George W. Bush

Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of 
this message.