Handel’s Judas Maccabaeus: The Classical Connection to Hanukkah

When we think of George Frideric Handel, most of us immediately imagine Messiah — the beloved oratorio that fills concert halls every Christmas season. But Handel wrote many other large-scale works that tell stories of faith, courage, and triumph. One of the most fascinating, and one that beautifully connects to Hanukkah, is Judas Maccabaeus.

The Story Behind the Music

Composed in 1746, Judas Maccabaeus was inspired by the historical events that Hanukkah celebrates — the revolt of the Jewish Maccabees against the Greek-Syrian Empire in the second century BC. After years of oppression, the Maccabees, led by Judas, reclaimed and rededicated the Temple in Jerusalem. That victory is at the heart of Hanukkah, often called the “Festival of Lights.”

Handel wrote this oratorio not for the synagogue but for the concert hall, commissioned to celebrate another victory — the Duke of Cumberland’s triumph at the Battle of Culloden. Yet Handel, ever the dramatist, saw the deeper story: the courage of a small group standing up for faith and freedom.

In Judas Maccabaeus, Handel used the ancient story as a timeless symbol of perseverance, faithfulness, and light overcoming darkness.

A Musical Celebration of Triumph

The oratorio opens with Israel in mourning, lamenting oppression and defeat. But as the music unfolds, themes of bravery and divine strength take center stage. Handel’s choruses — bold, rhythmic, and full of energy — sound like musical victory banners.

Perhaps the most famous of all is the rousing chorus “See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes!”

It’s one of Handel’s most triumphant melodies, celebrating the return of Judas after battle. Interestingly, this tune later found a home in other traditions — even becoming associated with Easter celebrations and used in British coronations.

Through Handel’s music, the story of Judas Maccabaeus became not only a tale from Jewish history, but a universal expression of hope and victory.

Why It Matters for Students

For homeschool families studying history or world religions, Judas Maccabaeus provides a beautiful example of how music can bring ancient stories to life. It also invites meaningful discussion:

• How did composers of the Enlightenment view stories of faith and courage?

• Why might Handel have been drawn to a Jewish story for a public celebration?

• What emotions do we hear in the music — lament, bravery, gratitude, triumph?

Listening to or studying Judas Maccabaeus can also help students see the common threads between Jewish and Christian musical traditions. Just as Messiah tells the story of divine redemption, Judas Maccabaeus celebrates divine deliverance — both through glorious music meant to inspire and uplift.

A Shared Story of Light

In the season when Christmas and Hanukkah often overlap, this music reminds us that the longing for light, hope, and renewal belongs to everyone.

Handel’s Judas Maccabaeus may not be a Hanukkah song in the traditional sense, but its roots run deep into the same soil — the story of a people who refused to let the flame of faith be extinguished.

For students (and adults!) who love classical music and history, it’s a wonderful reminder that behind every melody lies a story worth remembering.

Suggested Listening:

Handel – Judas Maccabaeus, “See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes”

Handel – Judas Maccabaeus, “Oh Lovely Peace” (duet)

For homeschoolers, I recommend using this work as part of a winter unit on ancient history, Hanukkah, or the Baroque era. It can make for a great discussion of how music can preserve and reinterpret historical events for new generations.

Happy listening!