The Dreidelverse
“For in truth, the entire universe is a spinning top, which is called a dreidel. Everything moves in a circle: angels change into men and men into angels; the head becomes a foot and the foot a head. All things in the world are part of this circular motion, reborn and transformed into one another. That which was above is lowered and that which was below is raised up. For in their root all of them are one.”
– Rebbe Nachman of Breslov
This Hanukkah, it certainly feels as though the world won’t stop spinning. We are dizzy from grief and fear. In the midst of all the motion and commotion, the festival of lights invites us to pause. The Hanukkah flames are meant to connect us to the infinite light that flows through all of creation. According to halacha (Jewish ritual law), while the candles are lit, we are not permitted to use them for work or any other activity. The sacred lights are there for us to look at, to soak in their beauty, to remember the miraculous deliverance of our people, and to find hope in the unending possibility of transformation.
We wish you a Hanukkah filled with sparks of hope, loving light and many moments of joy and connection. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Hag Urim Sameach & Shabbat Shalom!
We take inspiration from the Hanukkah candles to bring more light into the world. Here is a Hanerot Halalu melody from Rabbi Yosef, Chava Mirel and Deborah Sacks Mintz. We will sing this song tonight and at our gatherings throughout Hanukkah.
