Dec. 25 marks a rare intersection: The beginning of Hanukkah and the celebration of Christmas fall on the same day. As friends and colleagues for over 35 years, we find this overlap full of opportunities for reflection. The origins of both Hanukkah and Christmas offer insights into their modern-day significance. Hanukkah’s story is rooted in the Maccabean revolt, a time of reclaiming religious and cultural freedom.