The Rise of Hellenism
Later during the Second Temple period, when the Jews were subject to Greek rule, Hellenistic culture slowly became dominant. The rise of Hellenism climaxed with the famous decrees of Antiochus IV in 167 BCE (see Timeline), the details of which are recorded in Sefer Ha-makkabim I (see chapters 1-4). There, we are informed that after the decrees were enacted, the Hellenists erected an idol on the mizbayach on the 15th of Kislev of that year. They waited, however, until the 25th of Kislev before sacrificing upon it (see Sefer Ha-makkabim I). On that same day they began killing women who circumcised their children.

Apparently, the Hellenists selected the 25th of Kislev intentionally. The choice of this day most likely was not just coincidental. One could suggest that the Hellenists chose this date specifically "le-hach'is" [to spite], being aware of its 'religious' significance.