Temple Emanu-El kicks off Hanukkah

At Temple Emanu-El of Long Beach, the community gathered to mark the commencement of Hanukkah during a spirited celebration on Dec. 7.

The event featured a spread of snacks, a DJ, dancing, and performances by the temple’s youth choir, whose voices filled the sacred space with joy.

“Hanukkah commemorates a time in Jewish history, some 2,200 years ago when the conflict in Israel ended and the light of peace shone brightly,” Rabbi Jack Zanerhaft said. “As we celebrated the first night of the holiday at Temple Emanu-El, the parallel to our times was poignant. Watching our youth joyously sing, dance, and interact with others reminded us that our future is as radiant as the candles we lit.” 

Zanerhaft took the lead in guiding the community through the ceremonial lighting of the first Hanukkah candle, following a reflection on the holiday’s significance.

“We all know why we celebrate Hanukkah for eight nights, because of the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days, eight nights, but it was only supposed to last for one,” Zanerhaft explained. “So, the Rabbi said, you made a mistake, we shouldn’t celebrate for eight. If you think about that, take a moment, and pause and think the miracle was night two through eight, that first night was not a miracle. It lasted beyond the first. So only two through eight was the miracle.”

While the initial night may not be deemed a miracle, Zanerhaft clarified that it played a crucial role in paving the way for the events that unfolded. This understanding serves as the foundation for the holiday’s celebration spanning the entire eight days.

“The real miracle lies in the hope, dedication, and faith exhibited by the people during their search for pure oil, emphasizing the relevance of these qualities in the current challenging times,” Zanerhaft said. “That was the miracle, as you know we live in a time where we need that faith. We need that hope; we need that miracle to continue.”

Zanerhaft then guided the community through the symbolic lighting of the first Hanukkah candle. He highlighted the significance of the helper candle, commonly known as the “shamash,” which is used to light the other candles on the Hanukkah menorah.

“When you use a flame and a candle to light another flame, that first fire never gets diminished,” Zanerhaft said. “It always ignites another flame, and the first light never gets smaller. I want all of you to become the challenge. When you bring light to somebody else. You don’t diminish your light. Your light gets stronger.”

The celebration was followed by the lighting of the Menorah in Kennedy Plaza with the Beaches Jewish Community and the City of Long Beach.