One problem: the intent of both of these man-made celebrations were different. It would be fine if Christmas was an original observance of the date of Messiah's birth, but it's not (even though some church fathers make that case). There is much evidence that Messiah was born around the festival of Sukkot (tabernacles). This makes prophetic sense - really.

But Christmas is a christianizing of a pagan celebration. This is clear also from the Church Fathers. There are letters extant that tell leaders of congregations to re-paint the pagan new believers' practices with Christian meaning.

Taking something that was designated for pagan worship and using it to worship the Holy One is "dyed in the wool" synchretism. And G-D has never taken kindly to this.

Hannukkah is actually based on resisting synchretism and assimilation. The Greek/Syrian Antiochus IV tried to say he was G-D. He set up the Holy Temple to worship Zeus. Many Jews acquiesced. Many likely redressed these practices as worship of G-D.

A few did not. A few stood alone for pure worship and the sanctity of the Scriptures.

As a believer in Jesus (Y'shua), I find more meaning in Hannukah as a season of re-dedication. I find more meaning in Y'shua's words when asked the seasonally and politically charged question of his Messiahship. He was born to be the ruler. G-D incarnate - yes, but as the G-D man King - Emanuel who will one day return and restore Israel defeating the armies of the nations.

I do!