December Bible Events
As we step into the final month of the year, it’s natural to look back at everything that’s happened. And when we look at what took place in the Bible during this same month, we’re reminded that God is always at work—then and now.
December may be a darker time of year, but it’s filled with reminders of light. Advent candles glow in homes and churches, and the menorah shines brightly during the Feast of Lights.
Let’s take a look at the biblical events connected to December.
December 7 – Kislev 17
Advent – Second Sunday
The first purple candle is relit, and a second purple candle is added. This week points us to the prophecies of Jesus’ first coming—highlighting preparation, peace, and promise.
December 10 – Kislev 20
Pagan Wives
After three days of fasting and prayer, Ezra gathered the men of Judah and Benjamin in Jerusalem. He called them to repent for marrying pagan wives.
Read the full passage: Ezra 10:1–15
December 14 – Kislev 24
The Second Temple Foundation
After returning from Babylon, the people began rebuilding the Temple. After years of opposition and an 18-year delay, work resumed on Kislev 24, 354 BC.
Read the account: Haggai 2:1–14; Ezra 5:1–6:18
Feast of Lights – Day 1
Chanukah begins! This eight-day celebration remembers the rededication of the Temple and God’s miraculous provision.
See it in Scripture: John 10:22
December 15 – Kislev 25
Cain and Abel
According to Jewish history, this is the day Cain killed Abel—the first murder recorded in Scripture.
Read the story: Genesis 4:1–8
December 21 – Tevet 1
New Moon / New Month
The month of Tevet begins today. Kislev is the ninth month on the biblical calendar and the third month on the civil calendar.
Advent – Third Sunday
Two purple candles and the pink candle are lit. This week focuses on John the Baptist preparing the way and the joy surrounding Jesus’ birth.
December 22 – Tevet 2
Feast of Lights Ends
The final candle is lit using the “Servant” candle, and all nine lights shine brightly as Chanukah concludes.
Read the passage: John 10:22
December 24 – Tevet 3
Christmas Eve – Advent
The white candle—the Christ candle—is lit, celebrating both the birth and the promised return of Jesus.
Read the verses: Luke 2:6–7; Revelation 1:7
December 25 – Tevet 5
Christmas Day
Christians around the world celebrate the birth of Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah. As believers once anticipated His first coming, we look forward to His return.
See the passage: Galatians 4:4–6
December 29 – Tevet 9
Death of Ezra
On this day in 313 BC, Ezra died. He served as a priest, scribe, and teacher of the Law, and helped lead the second group of exiles back to Jerusalem.
Read more: Ezra 7:9–11
December 30 – Tevet 10
Siege of Jerusalem Began
Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonian army surrounded Jerusalem on this day. The siege led to the destruction of the First Temple and the exile to Babylon.
Read the account: 2 Kings 25:1
Looking Ahead
This month we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Light of the world. As we look back on His first coming, let’s stay faithful to the work He’s given us while we wait for His return.
If you’d like to track biblical events month by month, take a look at our 2026 Biblical Events Calendar—a simple and helpful way to follow the Bible timeline throughout the year.
