Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
DED'ICATE,DEDICA'TION, a religious ceremony by which any person, place, or thing is set apart for the service of God or to some sacred use. Num 7; 2 Sam 8:11; 1 Kgs 8. Cities, walls, gates, and private houses were thus dedicated. Neh 12:27. The practice of consecration was very common among the Jews, and was suited to the peculiar dispensation under which they lived. c. 164. Like the other Jewish feasts, it lasted eight days, but, unlike them, attendance at Jerusalem was not obligatory. In general, it was kept like the feast of tabernacles. The Hallel was sung every day.
It was a time of rejoicing. c. 167.