SF -- Chanukah and the Hidden Light

segunda-feira, 11 de dezembro de 2023

SF -- Chanukah and the Hidden Light

During the Festival of Chanukah we light 36 candles. The number 36 is very significant because it corresponds to the "Ohr HaGanuz" - the Hidden Light. When HaShem created the world, He illuminated a special light upon the earth. After 36 hours, HaShem decided to hide away this light - the Ohr HaGanuz -- for the righteous in the World to Come. HaShem hid this light in the Torah, corresponding to the 36 Tractates of the Talmud. The Menorah that was kindled in the Temple, revealed aspects of the Ohr HaGanuz. Also, the 36 Hanukah candles that Klal Yisrael light reflect a portion of the holy Ohr HaGanuz upon the world. When the Meshiach comes, HaShem will illuminate the full radiance of the holy Ohr HaGanuz upon the entire nation of Israel.

When we light the Hanukah candles, the individual lights combine into the sublime emanation of the Ohr HaGanuz.

Envision Aaron HaCohen lighting the Menorah and experience the holiness that elevates the souls of Klal Yisrael. When you light the Chanukah Menorah, reflect on the phenomenon that all of the Chanukah Lights that are kindled throughout the world, combine to illuminate the world with the Hiddden Light of the Ohr HaGanuz. Gaze upon the flames of the Chanukah Lights, and imagine all of Klal Yisrael enjoying the Ohr HaGanuz.

(Based on Bene Yissacher)