Hanukkah

Rabbi Yael Ridberg writes: It is no secret that much of the world can’t wait for 2020 to end. The compounded losses brought to us by the COVID-19 pandemic have penetrated every layer of our existence, and hope and joy have been elusive and fleeting. As we approach the darkest days of the year, we also anticipate holidays of light that we need so badly. We have been searching for miracles all year: an end to the suffering, to be able to embrace one another again, and to gather without concern. This week Jews all over the world will light the eight-branch Hanukkah candelabra to remember and celebrate the unexpected miracles found in the depths of despair. 

An email discussion between educators about teaching Hanukkah and the implications of different approaches. 

An empowering retelling of the Hanukkah story that emphasizes theology and remembering rather than miracles or military might.

This revision of a familiar Hanukkah song was published in the 1945 Reconstructionist siddur. The original text was amended to address ethical concerns raised by Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan.

A text study on the evolution of Hanukkah. What is the miracle, and what is the light?

Sources, ancient and modern, on the nature of the light of Hanukkah