“Why Be Jewish?” is a question we only have the luxury of asking today. In the past, the anti-Semite gave the Jew no choice. The Jew was refused entrance to mainstream society.
But today we live in a different world. We are accepted and welcomed and can easily assimilate. For the first time history our children and grandchildren can ask “Why be Jewish?”
Do we know how to answer the question?
The answer of course is Chanukah :)
No, I’m not referring to the Chanukah Gelt and latkes, but rather the message of Chanukah.
Why be Jewish?
Because the world needs you to be Jewish.
Judaism is the most powerful idea that the world has ever seen. Might does not make right; every individual is created in the image of G‑d, and is therefore unique and valuable; humans are partners with G‑d in creation, with a mission to better the world - These are ideas the world the world urgently needs to hear.
Judaism teaches lessons that the world needs to learn. A family that keeps Shabbat is always reminded of what is really important—that there is more to life than accumulating wealth. The kosher laws teach us that we are not mere animals that must feed our every urge and desire. A mezuzah on the door tells the world that this home is built for a higher purpose.
On Chanukah we light the candles at the window facing the street to remind us that through our personal Judaism we bring light and healing to the entire world.
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Benjy Silverman