Reflections on Hanukkah and Recent Tragedies
Over two thousand years ago, Judas Maccabees spearheaded a notable Jewish uprising against the Greco-Syrian army, successfully reclaiming Jerusalem and the Second Temple. It’s a well-known story—one that centers on the miracle of a small amount of oil lasting eight days instead of just one, allowing the Maccabees time to find a new supply.
As a Jewish kid, I cherished Hanukkah. It wasn’t the gift-giving each night that made it special for me. Rather, it was about the miracle itself. Now, I acknowledge that Hanukkah isn’t the most religious holiday compared to others like Yom Kippur, which is about atonement and seeking mercy, or Passover, which celebrates liberation from Egypt. And of course, there’s Shavuot, commemorating the giving of the Torah. Still, there’s something uniquely captivating about Hanukkah.
This celebration embodies a powerful symbol of light overcoming darkness, of perseverance against adversity. It’s beautiful, really. Even today, people gather at the Western Wall in Jerusalem, praying and leaving messages that reflect hope. They believe that God listens to their whispers and answered prayers.
Today, I find myself praying, particularly for the victims of a horrific, ISIS-inspired attack on Hanukkah celebrations in Bondi Beach, Australia, which tragically left at least 15 people dead. It feels heart-wrenching.
Such distressing incidents are a call to action for the world. We desperately need to address the surge of anti-Semitism, a growing hatred that, if left unchecked, could have dire consequences. It reminds me that we need to channel the bravery and fortitude of the Maccabees from centuries ago, striving to turn back the tide of darkness.
As I reflect, it occurs to me how similar my feelings are to the communal spirit at Brown University, where I spent my academic years. Coming from a family with deep connections to the school, I’ve felt an acute sense of loss and concern following last weekend’s shooting on campus. Brown, with its serene setting, feels like a tight-knit community, a refuge in a chaotic world. Now, we face vulnerabilities that are hard to ignore.
As we come together to heal, I believe we should reach out for miracles, praying for strength and solidarity in troubled times. May a higher power guide us toward healing and bind our wounds, pushing away the shadows of despair.
Let us look toward the light and work together for a better future.
