Even today, the influence of the Greek spiritual impurity continues to “darken the eyes and hearts of Yisrael.” If you feel darkness in your heart and mind, if sadness overwhelms you, if everything seems closed off both inside and out, chas veshalom—if you cannot perceive the light of truth and genuine understanding, which is the firm belief that “there is none other than Him” and that only Divine vitality sustains all creation—then naturally, your troubles will pursue you. Anxiety and pressure will gnaw at you, and above all, the evil inclination will relentlessly chase after you.
Stand with strength and courage during these exalted days, and on this uplifting Shabbos of Chanukah, grasp with both hands the gift that Chazal gave you—the gift of Chanukah! As the Sfas Emes writes in the name of his grandfather, the Chiddushei HaRim (1871, at the end of the fifth night of Chanukah): Nachon libo batuach baShem, samuch libo; His heart is steadfast, trusting in Hashem; his heart is secure (Tehillim 112:7–8)—the final letters of these words spell Chanukah.
And when you kindle the light of the mitzvah, do not remain indifferent and confined to the external act alone of a beautifully lit menorah. Internalize the essence of the mitzvah! Ignite the soul of man [that] is the lamp of Hashem (Mishlei 20:27). Illuminate the depths of your heart and mind! Drive out the darkness of confusion and frustration! Lift yourself and free your soul and the souls of your household from the darkness instead of engaging in dark thoughts and sinking into sadness... discover the spark of light in the root of Yisrael’s holiness; uncover the beauty and splendor that the Almighty has planted within you and your home! To illuminate the eyes and hearts of Yisrael!
