Today is the final day of Chanukah, the candles have already burnt out, but the light of these special days remains with us until this evening. The final day of Chanukah is known as זאת חנוכה, ‘this is Chanukah’ a phrase borrowed from today’s leining, the first two letters add up to the number 8, alluding to today. The Chassidic masters say that today is the final day of judgment, the sealing of the the din of Yom Kippur.
At Neilah we ask Hashem for more time to make a change for the good, and Hashem grants us that opportunity. Hopefully we have been able to implement some of the changes that we committed to a couple of months ago, but if not, today is the day to remind ourselves what they were and to try to make them happen.
On this last day of Chanukah we reflect on the lessons of the past week. We have learnt how a small band of committed people were unwilling to resign themselves to defeat even when all seemed lost. They placed their faith in G-d and took action even though it seemed futile. This is symbolised by the miracle of the oil; they lit the candles even though they did not have enough fuel. Their bitachon, trust in G-d, meant that they realised although they had to try their best, ultimately all success is in the hands of Heaven.
Think about the darkest times in Jewish history and draw courage,
strength and inspiration from their acts of bravery and determination.
What message would our heroes have for us and our personal challenges?
Discover more from Rabbi Roodyn
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
