Hanukkah: Together We are a Mighty Light

By: Eran Glazer

Growing up in Israel, Hanukkah was always a magical time for my family and me. I can still picture the excitement that filled our home as we gathered each night around our Hanukkiah (*). 

Let me tell a little bit about the Feast of Hanukkah:

Many years ago, during the Greek rule over the land of Israel, Jews were prohibited from practicing their religious traditions. A brave group of Jewish warriors, led by Judah the Maccabee, known as the Maccabees, fought against the Greeks. After a miraculous victory, they purified the Temple and relit the menorah. Although they had only a small jar of oil, enough for one day, a miracle occurred, and the oil lasted for eight days. In memory of this event, Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days, lighting the menorah and celebrating with songs and games.

One of Hanukkah’s songs says: “Each one is a small light, and together we are a mighty light" emphasizing the importance of every individual as a unique and distinct being, each playing a vital role in the world. Each of us brings light, hope, and strength, and when combined, we create a powerful and steadfast force that inspires positive change and a shared vision. The phrase encourages reflection on each person's contribution to society and the ability to create unity and light together.

On the morning of October 7th, darkness fell over the State of Israel, and within it, small lights of individual acts of heroism lit up, showcasing heroes who exhibited leadership. At the National Center for Leadership Development, we discuss what makes a leader: purpose in life, the Bible, and faith. Since then, we have seen citizens of the country taking civic responsibility in various aspects of leadership. We witnessed thousands of grieving youth here, but after the activity and discussions about King David, they understood that the miracle called the State of Israel must continue to exist, and young men and women realized they were following in the footsteps of the Maccabees.

Childhood

Back to my childhood, I remember that there was something so profound about the simple ritual of lighting candles, one by one, adding another light each evening. I especially remember the anticipation building toward the eighth night, when all eight candles, plus the shamash, would finally be lit. The room was bathed in a warm and bright glow, and it felt as if every shadow had disappeared.

That light left an impression on me. It wasn’t just physical brightness; it carried a feeling of hope and resilience, a reminder of past miracles and our ancestors' strength. Even as a child, I knew this light was something more—a symbol of survival and divine presence. 

There is another famous Hanukkah song “These lights that we light, for the miracles and for the wonders that You did for our forefathers in those days at this time.” My grandfather, a survivor of the horrors in Europe, always used to tell us at the end of the song, 'You are my miracle! Seeing you, the family, here in the Land of Israel is the wonder, and the State of Israel is a miracle.'

As a father, I have done my best to pass these values on to my two sons. We’ve celebrated Hanukkah with the same reverence and meaning, and I’ve shared with them the importance of being a light to others. It’s deeply gratifying to see them now, carrying on this vision of leadership and understanding their duty to spread hope and kindness. G-d's light has always shone upon Israel, guiding us through history, and I see that same spirit in my sons. Together, we strive to be a light to the world, a beacon of resilience and compassion.

Today, as Israel faces difficult and painful times, I reflect on the lesson of those Hanukkah lights. Just as we awaited the eighth night to see the full glow, we are called now to be lights in the darkness. There are so many around us who are suffering, especially those dealing with trauma and loss. In times like these, God’s light to Israel feels especially powerful, a reminder of our role as a nation. We are called to be a light unto others, showing compassion, strength, and hope. Hanukkah reminds us that even in the darkest times, light can push away the shadows. Just as I saw that Hanukiah blaze in my childhood, I hope we can carry that light forward—to heal, uplift, and be a source of hope for all.

In these challenging times, as Israel and so many of our people face trauma and loss, I believe even more in the power of that light.

This coming Hanukkah, we will light Hanukkah candles throughout the Land and the world, lights of hope within the darkness that will spread light, hope, and prayers for days of tranquility and peace. The people of Israel are here thanks to God's promise, and no enemy can overcome us—neither the Romans, nor the Nazis, nor Hamas. They will all disappear, and we will be strong and steadfast.

Prayer for Hanukkah

God,  

On this Hanukkah,  

I thank You for the miracles of the past,  

And for the miracles You perform even today.

Blessing for the lights of the candles,  

That they may shine in the night  

And in my heart may illuminate  

To bring forth fruit and tranquility.

My heart may fear,  

For the difficult days,  

And with Your help, O God,  

I trust to seek peace.

God, grant us the strength  

To serve Your people in truth,  

That we may hear Your voice  

And bring peace to family and to the land.

(*) Hanukkiah: the 9-branches candelabra used during the Feast of Hanukkah, is different from the Menorah, which has 7 branches.