As we prepare for the Yom Tov of Chanukah, this thought came to mind:
Chanukah is more than a mere historic date. It conveys an important religious lesson and the interpretation of ideals which are of vital significance at ever age. The message is evident as we light Chanukah candles every evening of the Yom Tov and recite “Hanerot Halaly Kodesh Haim V’ain Lanu Reshut Lehesh Tamesh Bahem.” “These candles are holy and we are not permitted to make any use of them, we many only look at them.” This statement reflects a difference between the Shabbat candles and the Chanukah candles. That, unlike the Shabbat candles, which are used to illuminate the house, the Chanukah candles are holy and what is holy can be used for one purpose only, to be gazed at and contemplated.
There is something remarkable about this idea. That which is holy many not be used for any other purpose, no matter how worthy the cause may be. There are certain things that are valuable in and of themselves, even if they serve no other function. True, this may seem so un-American. The ideal of America is to be practical and our guiding philosophy is pragmatism. The question we always pose in pursuing any course of action is of “what use is it?” Otherwise it is useless.
Chanukah takes exception to this. The candles have no purpose, for they are holy. This pragmatism must stop at the Menorah. One should gaze at the light, contemplate what they represent and not exploit them for their own use.
We need this lesson today. Human life like the Chanukah lights may be enjoyed but not used, explored but not exploited. Not to manipulate people for ulterior motives. To do what is right, for it is the “holy” right and not always to act with the question of ‘What is in it for me?’
Let us remember the words of the Navi Zechariah, לא בחיל ולא בכח כי אם ברוחי אמר הי
“Not through Army and not through strength but through My Spirit, said Hashem.”
חג שמח. Freilechen Chanukah
No comments:
Post a Comment