Why was the 25th of the ninth month chosen for the foundation (and re-dedication) of the Second Temple, and why did the holiday of Chanukah continue after the destruction of the Second Temple? As we explore these questions, we find that they are related to stories of much earlier and much later- a midrash about Adam haRishon and the miracle of the Chanukah story, as well as a miracle in the time of the first Temple. What emerges is an enduring message of the importance of hope in a time of darkness.

Courtesy of Rabbi Menachem Leibtag www.tanach.org