Vayeshev - Chanukah
Parshah Insights
מצוה חביבה היא עד מאד
It is a very beloved mitzvah.
The mitzvah of lighting the Chanukah candles is cherished greatly. The Sages teach that one who is careful with the mitzvah of Chanukah candles will merit to have children who are Torah scholars. The light of the candles represents the light of Torah and mitzvos, illuminating the darkness of exile and bringing spiritual clarity to the home.
One should strive to perform this mitzvah in the best possible way, beautifying it with a beautiful menorah and pure oil. The mitzvah is to light the candles at the entrance to one's home, publicizing the miracle that Hashem performed for the Jewish people during the time of the Chashmonaim, when the small flask of oil lasted for eight days.
Even those who are not wealthy should make an effort to fulfill this mitzvah, as it brings great merit and blessing to the household. The light of the menorah reminds us of the victory of the few over the many, the pure over the impure, and the righteous over the wicked.
May we all merit to see the light of the menorah shine brightly in our homes and in the world, bringing the ultimate redemption speedily in our days.
