Festival of Lights is a grand celebration

Humankind’s fascination with light spans the countless generations religious fervor and imagination.

Those who work with words, word smiths, well respected authors, know that the word “light” can be used as a noun, a verb and an adjective. For them, light is illumination, they can illuminate an object, or create a light motif.

In the context of the Jewish celebration of Hanukkah light, as in the Festival of Lights, is hope and resolve, energized by strength and bravery. The Hebrew word Hanukkah comes from Hebrew root to dedicate. 

The Maccabees, themselves a dedicated band were able to reoccupy the Temple in Jerusalem, rededicate it to its solemn purpose and return it to religious freedom.

Even in those days (circa 165B.C.E.) there were those who would oppress others by outlawing the practice of their religion and demand obedience to foreign gods. The rekindling of the Temple candelabra, the menorah, is the symbol of a faith and trust in values honed by the light of one’s responsibility to be true to the light within.

“Not by might nor by power but by my spirit says the Lord” (Zechariah 4:6) shall we all live in peace.

May you know the happiness of this holiday season.

Dr. Lawrence M. Colton

Rabbi, Freeport