Chanukah Tidbits...

"Listen to the Chanuka lights," The Previous Rebbe would say. Each one of them has a profound message.

Here are some Chanukah insights to reflect upon:

1. The Hebrew word "Chanuka" shares the same root as the word "chinuch" (education). During Chanuka we focus our attention on matters affecting the Jewish education of children. For this reason it is also traditional to give "Chanuka gelt" to children.

2. Oil, upon which the miracle of Chanuka is based, is an interesting substance. It is not required for our day-to-day existence and is never served alone as a food. It is used to add flavor and is thus associated with pleasure. Oil is a metaphor for the inner teachings of the Torah--Chassidut. Study of Chassidut adds pleasure to our observance of mitzvot. Additionally, both oil and Chassidut have the potential to illuminate. When we light a candle in a room, the contents of the room are revealed. Similarly, studying Chassidut serves to reveal not only more of our own personal potential and energy but also helps to reveal the G-dliness in the world around us.

3. "In those days at this time." These words, part of a special Chanuka prayer, hint at an amazing Jewish mystical concept. The spiritual energy that was evident during a particular event is reinstated in the world on the anniversary of that event. "At this time" we can draw on the energy of "those days." The eight days of Chanuka are an auspicious time to wage spiritual battles against evil, impurity and corruption within and without. And, with G-d's help, we will certainly be victorious, just as in those days.