Chanukah’s True Light

In the Western Hemisphere the Winter Solstice just occured; a time that the days are filled with the most darkness. Indeed, darkness seems to be spreading throughout the world. It is at this time, on the 25th of Kislev that we start celebrating Chanukah, the Festival of Lights. Also on the 25th (but by the Gregorian calendar) some of our non-Jewish friends will also start celebrating “a festival of lights” by illuminating every inch of their front lawns with colored lights and animated displays. In our window we will have a menorah and candles.

Yet, the greatest light for illuminating us, and the world, is the light of Torah learning. Let the light of the Torah be in our hearts and minds while lighting our menorah candles.

Individually and as a people we are facing many challenges and adversity. It seems many are trying to extinguish our flame and the flames of our brethren. But what happens when we challenge a candle’s flame by sprinkling a little water on it? The flame sputters, sizzles, fights, then grows, and grows strong, reaching up toward the heavens. Let us be like that flame, not giving up, but using any adversity that might come our way to grow, and grow strong.

On this Festival of Lights and always: Let us use Torah learning to light our path and illuminate the world.