Why Chanukah lights are displayed outside: A reminder to never feel ashamed of being an observant Jew and to spread Judaism publicly without fear, for a little light triumphs over much darkness
By the Grace of G-d
3rd Teves, 5728
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Greeting and Blessing:
... We are now coming from the days of Chanukah, which we celebrate by lighting the Chanukah candles in growing numbers from day to day, symbolizing the duty and privilege to spread the light of the Torah and Mitzvoth. The Chanukah lights also remind us of the need to spread the light of the Torah and Mitzvoth precisely when “The sun is set” and darkness prevails. Moreover, the laws regulating the lighting of the Chanukah candles require that they be displayed outside — a reminder that no Jew should feel ashamed of being an observant Jew, even though Jews are a minority among the nations of the world, and often have to contend with overwhelming odds. But, here again Chanukah reminds us that a little light triumphs over a lot of darkness, for the whole victory which Chanukah recalls was one of “The few over the many.”
I will look forward to continued accomplishments along the lines indicated above, particularly in the essential area of the practical observance of the Torah and Mitzvoth, as our Sages declared, “The essential thing is the deed.”
With blessing,
