On the other hand
In the year 165 BCE, the Temple in Jerusalem was rededicated after its liberation and cleansing by the Maccabees.
In the year 2023 CE Jews worldwide light their Chanukiot (Menorot) in remembrance of this miracle.
The Syrian Greeks tried to extinguish the flame of Judaism and Jewish independence. Today’s protagonists, primarily Islamic terror groups and their willing partners are following the same doomed scenario. Back then, the Temple was desecrated and Jews were forbidden to practice their faith. These days, Jews in the Diaspora face mindless mobs trying to ban public Chanukah celebrations and desecrate religious symbols.
Our ancestors demonstrated that Jewish faith, spirit and determination could overcome the greatest challenges. In our own time, Israelis in their rededicated homeland are showing that the spirit of the Maccabees is still alive and strong.
MODERN DAY MACCABEES
Don’t mess with these tank fighters.
In an historic world first Israel’s all-female IDF tank soldiers saved kibbutzim attacked by Hamas terrorists on 7 October.
Their heroic efforts can be seen on this amazing video. A more appropriate Chanukah connection would be hard to find.
CHANUKAH IN GAZA
Chabad and public celebrations of this miraculous holiday go hand in hand whether in Israel or Diaspora communities.
A group of Chabad IDF reservists are making sure that the Festival of Lights is not forgotten.
Watch as they assemble a large Menorah in Gaza as our modern day Maccabees prepare to commemorate the Jewish holiday of independence and triumph over evil.
RETURN TO KINDERGARTEN
A five-year-old Israeli girl who was kidnapped by Hamas and spent nearly two months in captivity was recently released.
Her return to kindergarten and the welcome she received from her friends exemplifies the spirit of Israelis during these traumatic times.
The contrast between Islamists who embrace martyrdom and death and Jews who embrace life could not be greater.
A HERO WHO SAVED 120
This is a chilling first hand account of an Israeli who single-handedly saved 120 people from the carnage at the music festival on 7 October.
