On Tuesday, President Barrack Obama issued his annual Hanukkah message from the White House.

USA Today reports that the president wrote a statement for the Jewish community.

"Over the eight nights of Hanukkah, Jews across America, Israel, and the world will remember an ancient triumph of freedom over oppression, and renew their faith in the possibility of miracles large and small," the statement reads. "Even in the darkest, shortest days of winter, the Festival of Lights brims with possibility and hope. The courage of the Maccabees reminds us that we too can overcome seemingly insurmountable odds."

The president also spoke about the Menorah, whose candles, he said, are a reminder of how "the smallest light has the power to shine through the darkness."

"And the miracle at the heart of Hanukkah -- the oil that lasted for eight nights instead of only one - reminds us that even when the future is uncertain, our best days are yet to come," the statement continues. "May this Hanukkah embolden us to do what is right, shine a light on the miracles we enjoy, and kindle in all of us the desire to share those miracles with others. From my family to yours, Chag Sameach."

The Jewish Press reports that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan issued his Hanukkah greetings to the Turkish Jewish community a day before the U.S. president.

"I congratulate our Jewish citizens on the advent of Hanukkah with my most sincere wishes," his statement reads. "We see the diversity in our social, cultural and anthropological being as the greatest wealth that has made Turkey what it is today, and reinforced its unity and cooperation as well as enhanced our solidarity and fondness."

In Hebrew, Hanukkah means "dedication." It is the holiday celebrating the re-dedication of the holy Temple in Jerusalem after the Jewish victory against Seleucid monarchy in 165 B.C.E.

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