Chanukah: Self Preservation
Posted 11/18/2025
A major lesson the story of Chanukah teaches the Jewish people is to be dedicated to our core values. As a result, regardless of the challenges we faced, face, and will face, it is our fundamental determination that we succeed beyond belief.
As proven in the miracles of Chanukah, it was deep spiritual faith that let the Maccabees succeed against the mightiest empire at that time.
Matthias, the High Priest, and his five brave sons, gathered a small, dedicated group of supporters, who miraculously defeated the mighty Greek Syrians at that time.
However, when we look past this great event, as foreign influence continued to seep into our Judaic mindset, we see the slow decline of the independent Jewish nation.
Outside interference and foreign cultural influences undermined all that the Maccabees achieved. It weakened the principles of the once strongest nation in the Middle East.
Before you know it, a century later, Rome vanquished the small nation of Israel. As a result, our long status of the “Wandering Jew” lasted until, miraculously, Israel was reborn. It was the spirit of Chanukah that glued us together. Those who chose the other course, did not survive.
Throughout Chanukah we recite the Hallel – הלל service, emphasizing that our strength is derived from our strong belief in G-d, and not dependent on anyone else. We read in the Torah portion about the unity of Israel’s tribal leadership.
Even today, after the horrific October 7th massacre, despite Israel’s great comeback, it is other nations who are dictating to Israel her future course. That is the opposite of the message of Chanukah.
The root word of חנוכה – Chanukah is our continuous dedication to our fundamental principle:
“בְּכָל דְּרָכֶיךָ דָעֵהוּ וְהוּא יְיַשֵּׁר אֹרְחֹתֶיךָ.” משלי ג, ו
“In all your paths, know the way of G-d, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3, 6.
“יְהוָה עֻזִּי וּמָעֻזִּי” ירמיה יז, יט
“O G-d, my strength, and my fortress,” Jeremiah 16, 19.
Each of us has the obligation to understand our faith and history. Together we will light our path to a happier future.
Happy Chanukah to all.
Rabbi Tzvi Berkowitz