by Rabbi Dr Rene Pfertzel - Kingston Liberal Synagogue

Entering their first winter, Adam and Eve saw that the light was decreasing (Talmud of Babylon, Avodah Zarah 8a). They could not understand why – maybe it was a punishment for standing up to God? -, so, they prayed and fasted for eight days. At the end of this period, they saw that the days were slowly getting longer, and they rejoiced to the sight of longer light in their days. They decided to mark these eight days every year, as an expression of their gratitude to the Creator who did not let darkness overrun the Creation.

Another Midrash explains that, upon entering the Temple of Jerusalem, after having freed the city from the Greek invaders, a miracle occurred: there was oil with the seal of the High Priest only for one day for the Temple candelabra, but it lasted for eight days. They instituted the festival of Chanukah every year to mark this miracle (Talmud of Babylon, Tractate Shabbat 21b).

It is no coincidence that this theme of light against darkness occurs at this time of the year when, at least in the Northern Hemisphere, we are heading towards the shortest day of the year. It is also no coincidence that this time of the year is so important for Christian Churches, and both festivals – Christmas and Chanukah – happen at the same time, give or take a few weeks.

Beyond an old narrative that tried to explain the cycle of the length of days, there is a profound spiritual teaching. It is upon us to bear witness of the light that illumines our world, and to do so in an active manner. It is our duty as guests in God’s creation to ensure that light shines brighter than darkness.

2023 has been a difficult year on so many different levels, and our mission is to hold high the candles and to bring light in this world that needs it so desperately.