Unlocking the Light

Newsletter December 18, 2023 Together, we're #keepingitsacred...

The Torah portion for Hanukkah is always the same, no matter when in the secular calendar it appears. The Festival of Lights always coincides with Parashat Miketz. And what is in this Torah portion?

It begins with our patriarch Joseph who is, up until now, an inmate in Egypt. But, through a series of events, he has found his way to Pharaoh who is seeking his ability to interpret dreams. When Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams with skill and acumen, Pharaoh not only agrees to release Joseph from jail, but also to then make him leader of the land.

The rabbis marvel at this development. And as I wrote about it in the CCAR-published book, Prophetic Voices, they recognized the unlocking of Joseph's body from bondage as a moment of an unlocking of Joseph's light. Unlocking him from bondage allowed him to benefit the entire people with his light.

The Sages of old go even further and recognize this same date, which they describe as a "light filled day," as also the dates when the Israelites went down to Egypt to escape the threat of famine, and then again were freed from bondage from Egypt.

They are connecting the idea that light that can be unlocked when individuals and even an entire people is given the love and support they need to self-actualize. When people are freed from famine, and from bondage, their light is unlocked.

On a holiday where we kindle candles to marvel at the light shining bright, particularly during the dark winter months, this message is most appreciated. We all benefit from more light in the world. And, we are encouraged to increase the light.

Through the ritual of lighting the menorah for eight nights, we realize that every day is an opportunity to help someone unlock their light. To share their goodness and glow with the world.

Many of us may be participating in community service or charity in the world at this end of year. There are so many places that would benefit from help unlocking light. Whose light will you choose to help to unlock?

Together, we’re #keepingitsacred…

Rabbi Heather Miller

Founder, Keeping It Sacred

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