Rosh Chodesh Kislev

Kislev is the month of Chanukah, which begins on the 25th. It is associated with light, miracles, and the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucid Greeks. The month falls during the darkest time of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, making the theme of increasing light through the Chanukah candles especially resonant.

Standard Rosh Chodesh prayers are recited: half Hallel, Ya'aleh V'Yavo in the Amidah and Birkat Hamazon, the special Torah reading from Numbers 28:1-15, and Musaf. Tachanun is omitted. As Kislev approaches, communities begin preparing for Chanukah, reviewing the laws of candle lighting and gathering supplies.