Rabbi Alisa Zilbershtein: Finding light in times of challenge

By Rabbi Alisa Zilbershtein

(Edmonton) – As the winter nights grow longer and darkness settles early around us, we prepare to kindle the lights of Hanukkah. This year, these flames carry special meaning as Jewish communities worldwide face increased antisemitism and hatred.

The Hanukkah story reminds us of our ancestors’ courage in the face of oppression. When the Syrian-Greeks sought to eliminate Jewish practice, a small group of devoted Jews fought not just for religious freedom but for the right to exist as Jews openly and proudly.

The miracle of the oil lasting eight days teaches us something essential about perseverance. Even when resources seem scarce, and hope dims, we continue forward. Each night, as we add another candle, we demonstrate our commitment to increasing light rather than cursing the darkness.

Our sages teach that the Hanukkah lights serve as a public declaration (pirsumei nisa). We place our menorahs in windows not just to share the miracle’s memory but to affirm our place in the world. Today, when some might counsel Jews to hide symbols of our faith, the act of lighting the menorah becomes an assertion of dignity and belonging.

Yet Hanukkah isn’t only about defiance. The gentle glow of the candles reminds us that light need not blind or burn to dispel darkness. Through education within our communities, thoughtful dialogue among ourselves, and acts of kindness to one another, we can help strengthen our shared Jewish identity and values. The Maccabees fought not only with swords but with conviction in their hearts and faith in their traditions.

Today, we too must cultivate our inner light through Torah study, through teaching our children, and through maintaining our customs with pride and joy. Each flame we kindle represents our commitment to preserving and celebrating our heritage, even in challenging times.

The Talmud teaches that we’re not permitted to use the Hanukkah lights for practical purposes – only to look at them and appreciate their beauty. In these challenging times, let us pause each evening to absorb their message: even small lights can illuminate great darkness when we kindle them together.

May the lights of Hanukkah bring warmth to your homes and hearts. May they strengthen our resolve to stand tall as Jews, to support each other, and to work toward a world where all people can live without fear. Happy Festival of Lights.

Rabbi Alisa Zilbershtein is the Rabbi at Beth Shalom Congregation in Edmonton.