Message From The Rabbi

Rabbi Max Miller

Today is the first day Kislev, the Hebrew month when we celebrate Chanukah. That means that there are only 25 days until the first night. When kids are little, we tell them a version of the Chanukah story that was written in the Talmud. This account emphasizes the miracle of a cruse of oil, which lasted for eight nights even though it only had enough to last one. When they’re older, we compare it to a cell phone battery below 10% that lasts as long as one with a full charge. However, like most of our holidays, there are many layers to pull back. According to the history books, the Maccabees refused Hellenism and waged a bloody civil war against the Assyrian Greek army. We leave that part out when we talk to kids in Kindergarten. 

Both versions of Chanukah’s origins are important. Like any subject, we don’t begin to explain the holiday to children like we would explain it to adults. Even though the historical account of Chanukah has no oil-based miracle, the story of the miracle-oil is real even if it didn’t happen. We’ve been telling it for over a thousand years, and we won’t stop any time soon. It’s a genuine part of how we understand the importance of Chanukah today.  

Today, we need both versions of Chanukah. We must remind ourselves that bringing light to the darkness is vital to our mission as Jews. We must remember the courage of the Maccabees, who remained steadfastly Jewish even when that was difficult. Whether we’re talking about our young people in school or on campus, our work environments, or even our homes, we must bring courage and light with us in these dark times.  

L'shalom, 

Rabbi Max