Celebrating hope and overcoming adversity

Imagine a country split along ideological lines, often even within the same family. Moreover, picture the religious right in constant friction with an ever-growing secular society. Add to that the unwanted influence of a foreign power that threatens the fabric of the status quo for the entire population. America, as described by recent headlines? No, this was the exact environment and landscape, as it existed in the Middle East during the time of the ancient holiday of Hanukkah.

After the demise of Alexander of the Great, in 323 BCE, his vast empire was divided. Initially Ptolemy I of Egypt was in charge of the leftover kingdom that included Israel, and he was largely tolerant, allowing for internal self-rule. Later, the Greek-influenced Seleucids, based in what is today Syria, ruled over Judea and Samaria, including the walled city of Jerusalem. They were determined to Hellenize this region, first by assimilation, and subsequently by force. After many years, the Jewish citizenry was split, with many adopting the new modern culture, abandoning Judaism for the attractions of the day including the famed gymnasiums. Others clung to the traditions of the Abrahamic faith.

A real battle for the heart and soul of the Jewish people was being waged and it was unclear which path would prevail. When the oppressors prevented the practice of anything Jewish, including holidays, and then desecrated the Great Temple with idols of Zeus and free-range pigs, a wave of protest resulted in a tipping point. A number of men and women banded together into a covert militia, fighting for religious and political freedom. Mattathias, a cleric, and his sons, known collectively as the Maccabees, led them.

This was no short or truncated campaign. Indeed the struggle lasted at least a decade and in approximately 160 BCE, miraculously, a relatively tiny nonprofessional army was successful in repelling a substantially larger, well trained and better-equipped force. When the Levites were able to regain control of their holy sanctuary, they restored it, and rededicated the Temple with the lighting of the grand menorah (the 7- branch candelabra) that almost immediately, became the symbol of victory and freedom. The “festival of light,” referring to the ceremony of rekindling the oil lamps for the first time after gaining independence, lasted eight nights.

Oftentimes, when we experience challenges to our liberties and attempts to shrink our democratic values, individuals feel helpless because of the apparent impossibility to effectuate real change. In addition, we are overwhelmed with the enormity of the task. This sense also permeates our personal and institutional lives. The lesson and message of Hanukkah for all people, is that a committed, small number of people with a righteous cause can overcome adversity. A holiday that gives hope to everyone, everywhere, is indeed worthy of celebration.

Rabbi Jack Zanerhaft is the spiritual leader of  Temple Emanu-El