Tag Archives: Jewish Holidays

Chanukah 2024: A Celebration of Miracles and Traditions

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This year, as snow blankets the streets of Montreal, I will celebrate Chanukah in my vibrant neighbourhood of Côte Saint-Luc. This corner of the city is home to a warm and close-knit Jewish community and my synagogue, which makes it the heart of my Chanukah experience.

The eight-day Jewish holiday of Chanukah begins on December 25 this year, coinciding with Christmas Day, a rare occurrence. This holiday offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the miracles and traditions that make it special and to consider how it compares to Christmas.

A Quick Overview of Chanukah

On December 25, Jews in Israel and worldwide will light the Chanukah celebration’s first candle, commemorating a historic victory. Chanukah marks the triumph of the Jewish people over the Greek Empire, which sought not to annihilate us but to suppress our traditions and impose Hellenistic culture. The decisive battle concluded on the 25th of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar. The word “Chanukah” originates from the Hebrew phrase “Hanu Kaf Heh,” meaning “they rested on the 25th.”

The wars of the Maccabees have always symbolized the victory of the weak over the strong. Chanukah also honours the miracle of the oil: a small flask of undefiled oil, which was enough to burn for only one day, miraculously lasted for eight days until a new supply could be prepared for the Menorah in the Holy Temple.

What Was the Miracle?

For centuries, rabbis have debated the question: If the oil would have lasted for one night anyway, the miracle then manifests only for seven nights. Why do we celebrate eight days rather than seven? There have been hundreds of responses to this question.

Some say that the very hunt for the oil and the refusal to use oil tainted by Pagan handling was one miracle that implied the continuity of our traditions.

Rabbi Meir Soloveitchik’s podcast offers another perspective. He describes the event as a “hinge moment” in world history. Alexander the Great sought to spread Hellenism, reshaping cultures under its influence. Without the determination of Judah the Maccabee and his family, Judaism might have faded away. Their victory preserved the faith and the concept of a singular G-d who advocates for justice and mercy. These ideas later influenced Christianity, Islam, democracy, and human rights, collectively forming the foundations of what we now know as Western Civilization.

The survival of Judaism through Judah’s leadership and battle strategies, impacted the moral framework of global civilization—a legacy explored in Rabbi Soloveitchik’s series.

The spiritual redemption emphasized by Chanukah is as significant as the physical redemption from slavery in Egypt that we celebrate during Passover, or the salvation from potential genocide in Persia commemorated during Purim and extends today to the ongoing challenges to Jewish survival in the Middle East. Currently, the spiritual revival resulting from the conflict in Israel has also materialized as soldiers, many not raised within our religious tradition, are requesting to wear tzitzit, the fringes prescribed by Jewish law. Additionally, they participate in communal prayers, even on the battlefields. Jewish congregations around the world continue to offer public prayers for the Israeli army and the release of all our hostages. This spiritual revival is just as meaningful as the remarkable physical victories of the Israeli military.

The Legacy of Victory

The spirit of resilience that defined the Maccabees is reflected in the Chanukah traditions that continue to inspire us today. Each year, I am reminded of this when I recall my childhood memories of singing “Mi Yemalel Gevurot Yisrael” at my elementary school’s Chanukah pageant. The song echoes in my mind:

“Mi Yemalel Gevurot Yisrael?”
Who will recount the mighty deeds of Israel?
“Hen b’chol dor yakum ha-gibor”
Indeed, in every generation, the hero shall arise!
“Goel ha’am”
The saviour of the nation!

The lyrics embody Chanukah’s timeless message: strength through faith and collective spirit. As we face challenges both near and far this year, the message of perseverance remains more relevant than ever. Just as the Maccabees stood firm against the oppression of Hellenism, Jewish communities today continue to stand resilient in the face of adversity.

Chanukah Traditions: Gifts, Games, and Food

The home is the primary setting for Chanukah celebrations. After sunset, we gather with loved ones to light the candles, recite the Chanukah blessings, sing songs, and partake in our cherished traditions. The menorah is placed in a window, or in Israel, outside the doorway in a glass-encased box to share the holiday’s miracles in the public square.

Foods of Chanukah

Not surprisingly, the culinary delights of Chanukah are centred around oily foods. In Israel, you’ll find a variety of fried donuts known as sufganiyot, while fried potato pancakes, or latkes, are a festive favourite outside of Israel. These dishes, cooked in oil, connect us to the miracle that the holiday commemorates.

Dreidel: A Game of Hope

The dreidel is a classic game played during Chanukah, symbolizing the reversals of fortune and the miracles that define the holiday. Each of its four sides features a Hebrew letter—נ (Nun), ג (Gimel), ה (Hei), and ש (Shin)—which together represent the phrase “Nes Gadol Haya Sham,” meaning “A great miracle happened there – sham.” In Israel, the final letter changes to פ (Peh), altering the phrase to “A great miracle happened here – po.”

Gifts and Togetherness

Another cherished tradition during Chanukah is giving gelt—either money or chocolate coins—to children. This symbolizes the values of sharing and gratitude. However, the true gift of Chanukah lies in the moments spent together: lighting candles, singing traditional songs, playing games, and reflecting on the holiday’s unique message of hope and resilience.

A Season of Miracles, Gratitude, Solidarity, and Acts of Kindness

This year, as Chanukah and Christmas coincide, we are reminded of the shared values that underpin these holidays: hope, faith, and the joy of giving. Chanukah celebrates the miracle of resilience and spiritual triumph, while Christmas centers on themes of light and renewal, commemorating the miracle of the birth of Jesus. Both holidays bring families together, inspire acts of kindness, and encourage reflection on the blessings in our lives.

As I prepare to light the Menorah in my Montreal home, I feel deep gratitude for the miracles of the past and the blessings of the present. Chanukah reminds us that even in the darkest times, the flame of faith can illuminate our path forward.

The overlap of Chanukah and Christmas presents a unique opportunity to appreciate each other’s traditions. The warm glow of the Menorah and the Christmas lights adorning homes worldwide symbolize our universal longing for peace, unity, and hope. As we light the Menorah this year, let us celebrate the perseverance and commitment of the Jewish people and all peoples for physical and spiritual survival.

May this Chanukah serve as a time for reflection and action. Amid the joy of celebration, extending our hands to those in need is important. Small acts of kindness—whether through donations, volunteer work, or simply helping a neighbour—can amplify the holiday’s message of hope and shared community and improve all of our lives.

May we all find inspiration in the enduring spirit of Chanukah and Christmas during this holiday. Whether in Montreal, Jerusalem, or anywhere else you may be, I hope you will join me in celebrating the miracles, traditions, and joys that make this time so special.

Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas, or Happy Holidays—whatever or wherever you celebrate may joy fill the world and peace reign in our hearts and across all lands.

May all wars end in peaceful coexistence and may all our hostages be returned from darkness to light, to the bosom of their families

Tisha B’Av: One People, One Heart

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As the sun sets on the eve of Tisha B’Av, my heart feels the weight of this solemn day. Tisha B’Av resonates deeply with every Jew as we mourn the destruction of the two Temples in Jerusalem, the expulsion from Spain, and countless other tragedies, including the Holocaust. Now, as if history itself were repeating, Iran and Hezbollah have chosen this day to threaten Israel, using its significance to try to break our spirit.

This isn’t just a military threat; it’s psychological warfare aimed straight at our hearts, intended to fill us with fear and doubt. But as I reflect on this, I’m reminded of the story of David and Goliath. David, a young shepherd, stood before the giant Goliath with nothing but a slingshot, unafraid. While everyone else cowered in fear, David saw the giant for what he was—a bully he could defeat. And he did, with a single stone. The Talmud also teaches that the mightiest can be undone by the smallest. These stories remind us that even the smallest act of courage can make all the difference.

This year, I’m observing Tisha B’Av here in the Land of Israel—the place our ancestors longed for and the place I now call home. There’s something deeply profound about being in this land. Walking through the hills and valleys mentioned in our sacred texts makes the connection feel immediate and real. These are the same landscapes where David fought Goliath, Jeremiah, and Isaiah walked and prophesied. The words of our sacred texts, which we read year after year, take on a new resonance when you live where these events unfolded.

Last night, I attended a gathering at Rabbi Katz’s synagogue in Efrat. Despite the somberness of the day, the evening felt warm and comforting. We began with a light supper on the rooftop, sharing food and conversation. As the sky turned dusky pink over the hills of Judea, there was a sense of unity—a quiet strength from being together during these challenging times. Later, we moved inside for prayers, talks, and songs.

Hearing Rabbi David Aaron speak about the soul’s journey on Tisha B’Av gave me a new perspective on the day—not just as a time of mourning but as one of deep spiritual significance. Rabbi Dr. Yosef Bronstein then shared the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s view on Tisha B’Av, speaking about the seed of redemption found even in our deepest sorrow. It’s a powerful reminder that Tisha B’Av is not only about our losses but also about the hope we carry and the belief that we can and will rebuild from these ashes.

As we enter Tisha B’Av tonight, I hold onto that hope. Yes, the threats are real, and the pain of our history runs deep, but so does our resilience. Like David, we face our challenges with courage, knowing that sometimes the smallest, most unexpected actions can have the greatest impact. We are one people with one heart, and our unity is our greatest strength.

May this Tisha B’Av bring us closer to healing and redemption, and may we soon see the day when our mourning turns to joy.

The Hidden Hanukkah

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Many cherish Hanukkah, a holiday filled with the comforting smell of latkes, the lively clatter of dreidel games, and the warm, inviting glow of the menorah. While the story of the Maccabees’ brave revolt against the Greeks is well-known, a lesser-known chapter in Hanukkah’s history adds a profound layer of meaning to this beloved holiday.

A Meeting of Legends: A Glimpse into the Past

In the ancient city of Jerusalem, as dawn’s first light softly embraced the city, an extraordinary encounter unfolded. Alexander the Great’s formidable army approached the city gates, but instead of a confrontation, something remarkable happened. The High Priest, adorned in resplendent garments that shimmered in the early morning light, led a procession of priests through Jerusalem’s narrow, winding streets. Holding torches aloft, their faces reflected a blend of solemnity and hope. To everyone’s astonishment, Alexander dismounted his chariot and bowed before the High Priest—a gesture of respect that would become one of the most captivating episodes in Jerusalem’s rich tapestry of history.

The Maccabees: Who Were They?

To truly appreciate Hanukkah, it’s essential to delve into the story of the Maccabees, a group of Jewish rebels who lived during the 2nd century BCE. Led by Judah Maccabee and his brothers, who hailed from a priestly family in Judea (modern-day Israel), the Maccabees were fierce defenders of their faith and heritage. Their name, “Maccabee,” is believed to derive from the Hebrew word for “hammer,” symbolizing their strength and resilience. They led a revolt against the Seleucid Empire, a Greek dynasty that ruled much of the Near East, including Judea.

175 BCE: Strife, Division, and Triumph

Fast forward to 175 BCE, a period marked by intense strife and division among the Greeks. Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the ruler of the northern Greek faction, launched an invasion of Judea. His actions, heavily influenced by the Hellenizing Jewish faction in Jerusalem, plunged the region into turmoil. As the historian Flavius Josephus records:

“The king being there to disposed, complied with them, and came upon the Jews with a great army, and took their city by force, and slew a great multitude of those that favored Ptolemy, and sent out his soldiers to plunder them without mercy; he also spoiled the temple, and put a stop to the constant practice of offering a daily sacrifice of expiation for three years and six months.” ¹

This Hellenizing faction embraced Greek culture and ideas, causing deep divisions within the Jewish community. They supported the imposition of Greek customs in Jerusalem and transformed the Temple into a center for Greek worship. This cultural and religious erosion threatened the very essence of Jewish identity and faith, setting the stage for the Maccabees’ revolt—a struggle to preserve Jewish practices and beliefs.

The Maccabees’ Resistance: A Struggle for Identity

Amidst the darkness of these times, the Maccabees’ bravery shone brightly. Their miraculous victory over the Seleucid Empire was a triumph of military might and a testament to divine intervention and unwavering faith. The Maccabees fought to restore Jewish religious practices that had been outlawed and to cleanse and rededicate the desecrated Temple in Jerusalem. This rededication is at the heart of Hanukkah, a holiday that celebrates physical and spiritual victories.

The Heart of Hanukkah: Celebrating Miracles with ‘Al Hanissim’

One of the most cherished aspects of Hanukkah is the singing of “Al Hanissim” after lighting the menorah. This song, far more than just a festive tune, captures the essence of the holiday. It celebrates the miraculous victory of the Maccabees, attributing their success to divine intervention rather than mere military prowess.

“You delivered the strong into the hands of the weak, the many into the hands of the few, the impure into the hands of the pure, the wicked into the hands of the righteous, and the insolent into the hands of those who engage in Your Torah.” ²

This beautiful prayer reflects on the rededication of the Temple and the revival of the Jewish faith, reminding us of the strength, courage, and devotion that define our heritage.

From Hellenistic Culture to Jewish Resilience: The Lasting Impact

Even in the wake of their victory, the influence of Hellenistic culture did not vanish overnight. A century later, the Romans—heirs to Greek traditions—came to control Judea after King Herod’s death. The destruction of the Grand Temple in 70 AD marked the beginning of a long and painful period of Jewish exile. Some rabbis even debated whether Hanukkah should continue to be observed after this tragic event. Yet, voices like that of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks argued for preserving the holiday, viewing it as a symbol of resilience and hope:

“Hanukkah is not just a celebration of a past victory but a reminder of the enduring power of hope and faith.” ³

A Light for Future Generations

Hanukkah is more than a celebration of past victories; it’s a testament to the enduring strength and faith of the Jewish people. It’s about keeping the light of hope alive for future generations, no matter the challenges we face.

As you light the menorah this Hanukkah, take a moment to reflect on the strength and resilience of those who came before us. Let their courage inspire you to bring light into your life and share that with others. How will you keep the spirit of Hanukkah alive in your daily life?

To capture the spirit of Hanukkah, this acapella video beautifully encapsulates the uplifting message of the holiday.

FOOTNOTES:

  1. Josephus, Flavius. The Antiquities of the Jews. Translated by William Whiston, Project Gutenberg, 2008, www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/2848.
  2. “Al Hanissim.” Chabad.org, www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/371618/jewish/Al-Hanissim.htm.
  3. “The Hidden Story of Chanukah.” Keynote address by Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks, Bushey Synagogue, 20 Oct. 2012. Bushey Synagogue, www.busheysynagogue.org.uk/video/hidden-story-chanukah.

Lessons from Shavuot

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Shavuot, known for commemorating the “Giving of the Torah,” is a significant moment in the Jewish calendar. It marks when the Jewish people entered a sacred covenant with G-d, receiving the Torah on Mount Sinai. While the holiday might seem understated today, its core message holds timeless significance. The image of Moses receiving the Torah and the collective embrace of this divine gift represents a bond that transcends time and tradition.

An Inclusive Celebration for All

Shavuot embodies a profoundly inclusive celebration. It’s a time when our community—no matter our age or background—comes together in unity. I vividly remember attending a Shavuot service where everyone shared a sense of anticipation and connection, from the youngest child to the eldest member. The phrase “those who are here today and those who are not yet here” beautifully encapsulates this spirit. It reminds us of our links to the present, future generations, and those who have come before us.

Moses’ address to the people highlights this inclusivity: “atem nitzavim hayom kulchem”—“You are standing today, all of you, before the Lord your God: your leaders, your tribes, your elders and your officers, all the men of Israel, your little ones, your wives, and the stranger who is in your camp, from the one who chops your wood to the one who draws your water.” He emphasizes, “I am making this covenant, with its oath, not only with you who stand here with us today before the Lord our God but also with those who are not here with us today.” This sense of inclusiveness isn’t just a historical note; it’s a living principle that continues to shape our identities and relationships today.

The Awe-Inspiring Revelation on Mount Sinai

Contemplating Moses climbing Mount Sinai to receive the Torah evokes a profound sense of awe. When he returned, the people were eager to receive this divine gift. In Exodus 19:5-6, G-d promises Moses that if the Israelites adhere to His commandments, they will become a treasured possession and a kingdom of priests. This promise depends on their acceptance of G-d’s terms:

“And Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain, saying, ‘Thus shall you say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel: You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto Myself. Now therefore, if you will obey My voice indeed, and keep My covenant, then you shall be a peculiar treasure unto Me above all people: for all the earth is Mine. And you shall be unto Me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. These are the words which you shall speak unto the children of Israel.'”

The Collective Embrace of Torah

A remarkable aspect of this moment is how the Torah was intended for everyone. Unlike ancient hieroglyphs reserved for a select few, the Torah was meant to be accessible to all. Moses was instructed to share it with the elders, who then passed it on to every individual in Israel. This inclusivity ensures every community member is part of this sacred tradition—a true kingdom of priests.

The Israelites’ acceptance of the Torah in the wilderness prompts reflection: Was their consent genuine, given their circumstances? Shavuot’s annual renewal reminds us of our continuous commitment to these principles.

As the mountain thundered and the people witnessed the giving of the Commandments, the experience was awe-inspiring and unifying: “All the people saw the thunder and the lightning, the sound of the horn, and the mountain smoking.”

Renewing Our Connection

Shavuot provides us with an opportunity to reaffirm our connection to the Torah. Traditionally, we gather to read the Ten Commandments and the Book of Ruth. This year, despite pandemic restrictions, our community adapted by finding creative ways to honour the tradition. I participated in a special Torah study session, limited to a small group. Rabbi Eliyahu Gateno’s explanation of the Ten Commandments’ arrangement clarified their relevance to our daily lives.

The first tablet focuses on our relationship with G-d, addressing the importance of honouring Him, avoiding idolatry, and keeping the Sabbath. The second tablet deals with interpersonal ethics, including prohibitions against murder, theft, adultery, false witness, and coveting.

Understanding the arrangement and implications of these commandments has profound significance. For example, the commandment against coveting highlights the psychological aspect of human nature, reminding us to overcome envy and cultivate contentment.

Embracing the Spirit of Shavuot

As we celebrate Shavuot, we renew our commitment to the Torah and the values that unite us. This holiday encourages reflection, study, and strengthening community bonds. By deeply engaging with these teachings, we ensure that Shavuot’s lessons resonate in our lives today and continue to guide us in the future. Whether you are Jewish or not, the principles of Shavuot offer a universal message of inclusivity, commitment, and the importance of shared values.

Footnotes:

  1. Generations Yet Unborn Are Watching, Sunday, September 15, 2013
  2. The Shadow of the Mountain: Consent and Coercion at Sinai By Gerald Blitstein
  3. Sefaria: Seeing sound making sense of Sinai offers a collection of the many oral Torah explications over the centuries and within our own time about seeing and hearing the voices and sounds at Sinai.