Hanukkah and the Case for Saying 'Merry Christmas' in a Season of Distinct Traditions

Debates over how to greet people during December's holidays have spilled into culture and entertainment coverage this season, centering on whether to say 'Merry Christmas,' 'Happy Hanukkah' or a generic 'Happy Holidays.' Advocates for specific greetings argue that acknowledging distinct celebrations preserves cultural meaning and invites genuine exchange, rather than diluting identity with a broad salutation. With Hanukkah starting on Dec. 14 this year, the question has taken on new urgency as families, retailers and media weigh how language shapes the season.

Hanukkah's origins trace to the Maccabees' resistance to Hellenistic pressures aimed at assimilation—an effort that touched far more than ritual practice. History notes that some Jewish leaders, such as Jason, who was born Joshua, adopted Greek names and customs in a bid to fit into a broader world. For many, the restoration of Jewish identity during the Maccabean revolt is cited as a reminder that tradition matters, and that public displays of faith—like the menorah lit in public spaces—remain acts of pride rather than private preference. The holiday's season-long lights serve as a reminder of resilience in the face of pressure to blend in.

Supporters of explicit greetings argue that saying 'Merry Christmas' or 'Happy Hanukkah' does more than acknowledge a moment of joy—it signals recognition of another's history and community. They contend that a universal 'Happy Holidays' can feel like a shield against genuine engagement, a gesture that can obscure differences that enrich the season. Retailers and broadcasters have, at times, leaned toward broad messaging to reach the widest audience, but many observers say such messaging comes at the cost of meaning.

Public figures have weighed in on the broader climate around Hanukkah and anti-Semitic violence. Gal Gadot and Ashton Kutcher publicly condemned antisemitic attacks tied to Hanukkah events, including a reported incident at Bondi Beach, underscoring that celebrations carry real risks and real stakes for communities seeking to assert their identities. The moment is often cited to illustrate why explicit greetings can be more than a courtesy; they can be a stand against erasure and intimidation.

Dr. Marc Siegel, in a Fox News Opinion column, argued that the season's moment calls for clear acknowledgment of Hanukkah's light and miracle. He described the era of the Maccabees as a fight not only to preserve faith but to keep alive Hebrew names and traditions, rather than letting them be washed out by assimilation. His point, translated to everyday language, is that naming traditions openly is not a political act but a human one—a way to reaffirm shared humanity during a season already defined by joy and challenge.

Some observers say that 'Happy Holidays' is a practical compromise that avoids awkward conversations and respects pluralism. Yet others maintain that the approach can leave individuals feeling unseen. Proponents of specificity argue that a well-intentioned greeting still creates space for dialogue about belief, culture and community.

The debate has implications beyond religious observance; it touches entertainment media, scholarly commentary and everyday conversations about how societies celebrate together. The season's greetings, they say, deserve more than a generic nod; they deserve recognition of depth and meaning. As the public conversation continues, many advocate choosing language that acknowledges each tradition—whether 'Merry Christmas,' 'Happy Hanukkah' or other celebrations—while maintaining a spirit of mutual respect.

In the end, the question may come down to personal nuance: Even if someone says the 'wrong' holiday, the gesture can still reflect thoughtfulness and willingness to engage with another's culture. The larger takeaway for culture and entertainment coverage is that the season’s language choices are about more than politeness; they are about recognizing historical experiences, fostering dialogue and affirming the humanity shared by people of many backgrounds during a time of celebration.