Tonight is the third night of Chanukah, a holiday of dedication and light. Pictured above is a display of Chanukah menorahs that hold the candles that are lit for the eight days of the holiday. Chanukah commemorates the rededication of the Temple after occupation by Syrian-Greek soldiers over 2200 years ago. A small vat of oil for the holy lamp was found that should have lasted one day, but miraculously the oil lasted eight days. Centuries later we commemorate this miracle of light.
It's difficult for me to feel very festive these days. The world seems to grow darker and darker and rays of light seem faint and difficult to discern. But I am sure to those Jews 2200 years ago, the world seemed dark and it must have been very easy to despair. And yet, light came through, even in the darkest time. My Chanukah wish is for hope and my Chanukah dream is for peace. If there is no light my deeds must kindle the light.
I know I've been very serious, but I've been reflecting on what a holiday dedicated to light means. It's not my usual post, but one that reflects my thoughts now.
For a lighter finale to this post, please meet the cutest Menorah I've seen in a long time. If you're eager to get one, it's from West Side Judaica, a local store that has a wonderful assortment of books, cards, gifts and items for holidays and Sabbath observance.
I may have to add this menorah to my collection. A more traditional style is on the left.
Wishes for peace, light, love and hope!
12 comments
Oh my, what a cute Menorah. You just might have to add that to your collection. We are called to be the light, as you wrote, especially in dark times. So Shine On!
The news has sure taken some of the joy away from a beautiful holiday season. It's nice to have things around us that are meaningful so that we can concentrate of what's important. Sweet hugs, Diane
I like the doggie Menorah. Fun! I have an old beat up silver one, but I love it!
We are living in tough times for sure!
But we can live positively and enjoy
our holiday celebrations.
M : )
Every time i visit your blog I find plenty of Light, Joy and Wonder . . . Thank you So Much. love & love,
-g-
I love the dachshund hanukiah. May have to buy it.
Peace, light, love and hope to you !
Although, I am not of the faith, I celebrated Hanukiah with the dearest of friends for a few years before her death.. It was lovely and my memories of those days will stay with me forever. We must never give up on hope.
Buttercup, I want to share your wish and your dream too. I loved the doggie menorah. Blessings to you, xoxo,Susie
Cute menorah!
It's hard not to be too much "of the world" these days. I have many tools to deal with anxiety and depression, but nothing seems to be working.
I tell myself that the world has always been this way, that it feels more intense now because of a 24/7 news cycle and the Internet, where it's in our faces all the time. Still, some days that's comforting, and others it isn't.
That is the cutest menorah but knowing my jokesters, there would be a trail of something behind it on the table.
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