Light Up the World

The polar vortex is coming again. Meteorologists are forecasting a “triple dip” of sub-zero temperatures in a good part of the country in December. Even the Great State of Florida will not be immune to the frigid air. Temperatures as low as 33 degrees Fahrenheit are forecast, increasing the risk of frost and damage to sensitive outdoor vegetation. I know that polar vortex when I see some of the trees in our neighbourhood sporting sweaters. ​ The truth is that it’s not only cold and dark in a physical sense. The Jewish people are once again encountering the cold and dark experiences that our ancestors experienced regularly, but we thought were in the rear-view mirror of history. ​ As we gather on Sunday night to once again light the Chanukah candles, it is an opportunity to bring light into this dark world. Our Rabbis teach that lighting the candles is merely a physical manifestation of our actively bringing the light of G-d into the world. There is an unusual practice related to Chanukah called “Pirsumei Nisa.” (Translation: to let the miracle be known to the public.) We are not merely obligated to light the Menorah, but obligated to light it in public. Even if someone is lighting at home, it should not be inside but rather at the door or window. There is no parallel obligation to any of the other Jewish holidays. One can ask, as we say at the Pesach seder, Mah Nishtana! Why do we light the Chanukah lights in public display when there is such an obligation for any other Mitzvah? ​ The reason for the unusual practice is that it underscores a primary theme of Chanukah. The physical light that we kindle is merely a physical manifestation of the spiritual and Divine light that enters our world. In a space and time rife with societal breakdown of so many of our most cherished values, it is the Divine light of the Chanukah lights that reminds us to be the best versions of ourselves. As we gather this Sunday night to light the first candle, let us remind ourselves that, despite all the chaos and darkness that we find ourselves in, we have the power to bring the most exalted light into our world. All we need to do is light the match. ​ Have a Peaceful Shabbos, ​ Rabbi Yaakov Fisch