* Translation by Yehoshua Siskin ([email protected])
Tomorrow, Thursday, we will kindle the first Hannukah candle. There is so much to consider and talk about next to the Hannukah lights this year.
1. Hamas tried to desecrate our homes and our families. Parents, children, and elderly people were attacked. On Hannukah, we sanctify the home and the family. We stand at the window, light a candle, and put the Jewish home and family on display, with pride and joy, for all the world to see.
2. Sometimes it seems that darkness and evil rule the world. That the dark regimes in Iran, Lebanon, and Gaza are winning. Hannukah reminds us to kindle our own light. Even though we do this little by little, one more candle each night, in the end our light will vanquish their darkness.
3. To pray next to the Hanukkah lights is a unique experience and a most propitious time to ask for God’s help. This year, wherever you are and with whomever you are, there is so much to pray for, although we are all really praying for the same thing.
4. The menorahs throughout the world are especially important this year. The Chabad movement and its emissaries together with other Jewish organizations hold large public candle lighting ceremonies, often in the company of city leaders. This year the message of the holiday lights is particularly significant due to the upsurge in anti-Semitic acts and ugly demonstrations. The menorah campaign is our demonstration, showing off the holy light that will ultimately triumph.
Happy Hannukah.
