blogs/brentspodek

One of the most wonderful Jewish legends teaches that despite setbacks, the world endures thanks to the efforts of 36 hidden righteous people. They are known as the lamed vav tzadikim, and not only do we not know who they are, but they don’t know who they are - they are just simple, kind people who improve the lives of people around them. Without knowing it, they bring light that sustains not only their communities, but the whole world. Perhaps you are one of them?

We just began the Hebrew month of Kislev, which is marked by the celebration of Hanukkah. Through some fancy numerology, the Jewish tradition teaches that the ohr haganuz, the hidden primeval light which shines through those lamed vav tzadikim, can be accessed a little bit more clearly by everyone. 

Here at BHA, we’ve got a few things coming up this month to help us all experience that light a little more clearly. 

• Illumin8-thanks to the efforts of the incomparable Ed Benavente, the Beacon Bicycle Menorah will be up again this year! Cantor Ellen, Rishe or I will be at the menorah every night of Hanukkah (November 28 - December 5).  You may join us for the lighting at the bicycle menorah, but we will also be streaming on Facebook so everyone can take part. Each night we will be honoring a different group of people. Please come out, bring energy and sing with us. All the details and links are available here.
• Menorah Meander- On the evening of Sunday, November 28, the first night of Hanukkah, we invite BHA Members to meander from one porch to another through the neighborhood  enjoying the lights of the menorahs and some treats at every location.  To receive details and the map you must register.  For more details and registration visit here.
• Kol Nidrei Campaign - At BHA, we deliberately keep our membership dues very low and flexible so that anyone who wants to can be a formal member of this community. This means that we are heavily reliant on our annual Kol Nidrei campaign in order to meet our operating costs. This year in particular, when so many of our members are hurting financially, we need everyone who cares about the future of this community to please contribute generously if you are in a position to do so. We are nearly 1/3 of the way to our goal, and I’m confident that if everyone who can chips in, we can make it all the way.  

Of all the Jewish holidays, Hanukkah is perhaps the easiest to celebrate at home. If you don’t yet have a menorah, our friends at Kolbo Judaica have a wide selection, and in the coming weeks, we’ll share some videos with instructions for celebrating at home! 

No matter how you celebrate, I hope you and your loved ones can experience some of the hidden light of this darkest season. 

With blessings,

Rabbi Brent