Chanukah: The Jewish Imperative to Finding Light During Dark Times

There are moments that seem blanketed in darkness. During these moments , the search for a guiding light becomes more profound and urgent. For those of us in the Jewish community, we are searching - no, yearning - for that light. Every day, it seems the news we consume causes the darkness to envelope us even more. The horrific murderous attacks by Hamas on October 7th, the fate of the hostages, the war, the Anti-Semitism at home and abroad, make the shroud of darkness seem thicker and harder to navigate.

A lantern in this darkness can be provided by our rich tradition and teachings, helping us navigate these dark times with hope and resilience. In Jewish thought, light is a powerful symbol. It represents wisdom, divine presence, and the eternal hope that guides us through our darkest times.

Chanukah, also known as The Festival of Lights, will help us see the light through the darkness. Chanukah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the Menorah, which, according to the Talmud (one of our texts of Jewish laws) burned for eight days on a single day's oil. The Maccabees fought against a strong, well-resourced Syrian Greek army, and defeated them after three years of war. This story teaches us about resilience and the enduring power of faith, even when hope seems scarce.

Chanukah, as well as other Jewish holidays, is imbued with the triumph of light over darkness. Passover commemorates the Israelites’ exodus and redemption from the oppression of Pharoah. Purim commemorates the light and resilience continuing as Esther and the Jews are saved against a megalomaniacal Haman. We need to open up our hearts to these stories, and use them as a source of strength and inspiration, reminding us that even the smallest light can dispel a great darkness.

The Chanukah menorah, when lit, is a symbol of that faith and perseverance.

Jewish families: When you place your Chanukah menorah in your window beginning this Thursday evening, take a moment to take in the light of the candles. Every evening thereafter, as you add another candle, meditate on that increasing light during our dark days, and know that our Jewish community’s superpower is resilience and faith, and these will guide us through these dark times.

Hag HaOrim Sameach - Happy Festival of Lights.