"On this holiday, we are proud to stand with the Jewish people who shine as a light to all nations."
By MICHAEL WILNERUpdated: DECEMBER 14, 2017 01:21Donald Trump(photo credit: REUTERS)
WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump has offered Jews around the world a happy Hanukka, in his first such message as president.Recalling the story of the holiday, he said in a statement: “The miracle of Hanukka began more than 2,000 years ago, when the practice of Judaism was made punishable by death.“A small band of Jewish patriots rose up and reclaimed their Jewish identity by vanquishing a mighty army,” he said. “In their pursuit to rededicate their holy temple, the Jewish heroes found only enough oil to light the Temple’s menorah for one night. However, a miracle occurred and with God’s grace the oil lasted for eight days.“On this holiday,” he continued, “we are proud to stand with the Jewish people who shine as a light to all nations. We also stand with the people of Israel, the Jewish state, which has itself a miraculous history of overcoming the tallest of odds.”Trump hosts White House Hanukkah party (Reuters)The president marked Hanukka with a reception for Republican Jewish Americans and Israel advocacy organizations at the White House earlier this month. He did not invite Jewish Democratic groups or members of Congress.His presidential campaign also put out a statement offering Jewish Americans a blessed holiday.