Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, holds deep significance, not just in the Jewish community but for the broader world as well.
Celebrated by lighting the menorah for eight days, this holiday commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days when there was only enough for one.
The symbolism of light is central to this celebration — light as a symbol of hope, perseverance and faith in the face of adversity.
In today’s world, where hatred, war and rising antisemitism cast long shadows, the message of Chanukah serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of light, both physical and metaphorical, in combating darkness.
The world today is deeply divided. Across many countries, we see an alarming rise in hate crimes, particularly antisemitic rhetoric and violence. The tragic events in places like Israel, the United States and Europe show that, despite the progress made in past decades, prejudice and hatred remain potent forces.
Antisemitism, in particular, has become more vocal and virulent in many parts of the world, with Jewish communities facing not only physical attacks but also cultural erasure, discrimination and delegitimization.
In the midst of this turmoil, the lighting of the Chanukah menorah is more than just a ritual. It is a stand against darkness and oppression.
The menorah’s light reminds Jews of their resilience throughout history — how they have endured centuries of persecution and hardship yet continue to preserve their identity, culture and faith.
The act of lighting the candles on Chanukah is an assertion of Jewish pride and a rejection of forces that seek to snuff out that light.
But the significance of Chanukah extends beyond Jewish communities. In a world fraught with violence and division, the need for light, symbolically and literally, is urgent. The light of Chanukah offers an antidote to the darkness of hatred and war.
When people come together to celebrate this holiday, they affirm the values of love, understanding and solidarity. The warmth and glow of the menorah provide an opportunity for communities to gather, reflect and share hope in a time of crisis. It serves as a call to action to confront hatred wherever it exists and to reject the forces that seek to divide and destroy.
Moreover, Chanukah’s message of light resonates with the universal human desire for peace.
Just as the Maccabees fought to preserve their religious identity, people of all faiths and backgrounds must fight to preserve their shared humanity against the forces of extremism, prejudice, and violence.
We too, must shine our light through acts of kindness, compassion and justice. This light has the power to heal wounds, to bridge divides and to inspire hope in even the darkest of times.
Just as one small candle can illuminate a room, even the smallest act of kindness or courage can make a difference in dispelling the darkness.
Rabbi Yossi Marrus is the executive director of Chabad of Boerne.
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