Laws of Chanukah
Two reasons why Al Hanissim is not said in Al Hamichyah:
1. When we daven or say Birchas Hamazon with a zimun (a group of three or more men) the miracle is publicized through Al Hanissim. Al Hanissim can then be included even when one says Birchas Hamazon alone. But Al Hamichyah is never said jointly, and no zimun is required. Al Hanissim is therefore not inserted in Al Hamichyah.
2. Another reason we do not say Al Hanissim in Al Hamichyah is because Chanukah is not mentioned in the Torah.
(The Essence of Chanukah by Rabbi Dovid Meisels)
A Torah Thought for Today
The Greeks prohibited Torah learning on pain of death. The Jews would hide in caves to learn Torah, posting guards outside. When the guards warned of approaching Greek soldiers, the Jews quickly concealed their books and began to play dreidle. The custom of playing dreidle is a reminder of their unswerving dedication to Torah study.
(The Essence of Chanukah by Rabbi Dovid Meisels)
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