The first night of Hanukkah in 2023, which falls on a Thursday, is a time of joyous celebration, and this is no different in the Chicago area.
Across Chicago, families and communities gather to light the first candle of the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum, signifying the start of the eight-day festival.
Thursday is the first night of Hanukkah 2023, and is being marked by celebrations across the Chicago area. https://t.co/df4Hfj73ac
— ABC 7 Chicago (@ABC7Chicago) December 8, 2023
As the sun dips below the horizon, marking the onset of the Jewish holiday, Chabad of Northbrook is set to become a hub of celebration. This place of worship and community is expected to welcome hundreds of individuals, all coming together to commemorate the start of Hanukkah.
As the festival of light, Hanukkah, approaches, Jewish communities around the world are preparing for the celebrations. This year, the holiday holds a special significance, according to many rabbis.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a time of joy and reflection for Jewish people.
“Unfortunately there’s a lot of darkness in the world, and negativity, and the message of Hanukkah is that instead of hiding, we’ve got to shine,” said Rabbi Meir Moscowitz, regional director of Lubavitch Chabad of Illinois.
Rabbi Moscowitz, is gearing up to deliver a powerful message of hope to his congregation.
“People are asking ‘what can I do? What can I do to be proud of my heritage, to be proud of who I am?'” he said. “I like to zoom in on the message of the power of light over darkness.”
In the midst of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Middle East, a situation that continues to escalate with an increasing death toll and an uncertain path to peace, Rabbi Moscowitz has made a heartfelt appeal to his congregation. He urges them to hold fast to their Jewish roots and heritage during these challenging times.
“We want to go out and be proud of who we are, of what we are, light the Menorah both in public and at home,” he said.
Hanukkah, a festival of joy and renewal, is traditionally a time when families gather to light the menorah, spin the dreidel, and celebrate the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days.
However, the ongoing conflict has cast a shadow over this year’s celebrations. The harsh realities of war have intruded upon the festive atmosphere, leaving many with feelings of uncertainty and apprehension.
Judy Kotzin, expressed the paradoxical nature of human existence, stating, “We’re supposed to love life at the same time that we know that it’s a very hard time for us.”
At the Israeli Consulate in Chicago, a poignant scene unfolded. Amidst the traditional Hanukkah festivities, a sobering reminder of the ongoing conflict was present. The table was adorned with sufganiyot, the Israeli jelly donuts that are a staple of the holiday, along with dreidels and chocolate gelt, symbols of joy and celebration.
Yinam Cohen, the Israel Consul General to the Midwest, expressed a poignant sentiment regarding the ongoing conflict. He said, “While we’ll be celebrating the Festival of Lights, they’ll be remaining in the darkness in Gaza.”
The Illinois State Police have issued a statement urging faith communities to exercise caution during the upcoming holiday season. The statement reads,
“With rising tensions in the Middle East and the escalating Israel-Hamas War, there is the potential for violence to be carried out by terrorist groups and supporters pushing their agendas.”
“I am always careful of my surroundings and I think a person always needs to be that, especially today when hatred is being promoted,” said Rabbi Dov Hillel Klein, executive director of Chabad of Evanston.
Rabbi Klein has issued a call for both caution and awareness. He emphasizes the importance of safety during these festivities, while also encouraging everyone to fully embrace the joy and significance of the holiday. He also advises against going to extremes in the observance of traditions.
“That concern shouldn’t paralyze you,” he said. “For me, Hanukkah means this time that we can say be proud, be proud of who you are. Be proud to be Jewish, put on that yarmulke, do a mitzvah, put on your Jewish star, your mezuzah.”
In the northern suburbs, a sense of security and community was palpable as local law enforcement officers were present during the menorah lightings and Hanukkah celebrations.
“Terrorists may look to holiday events, particularly those of the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian faiths, as potential targets to instigate violence,” state police warned in a statement.
David Rubel, a resident of Evanston, shared a poignant message during the celebrations. He urged everyone to remember those who might not be able to partake in the festivities.
He said, “Perhaps we bear in mind all those who aren’t partaking in the joyous celebrations tonight. However, we must remember that we are alive, and as long as we have life, we must strive to live every minute in a manner that truly reflects our spirit and values.”
The Illinois State Police have issued a public alert, warning of an increase in calls related to violence as the holiday season approaches. They are urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
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