| The Arizal teaches us that the 36 candles we light during Chanukah correspond to the numerical value of the name לאה (Leah), which also equals 36. In this case, the letter ל (Lamed) is worth 30, א (Aleph) is worth 1, and ה (Hey) is worth 5.
Our Sages, as mentioned in Berachos, tell us that Leah was the first person to thank Hashem! After the birth of her fourth son, she exclaimed, "This time, I thank Hashem!" The opening blessing of Hallel states: "Blessed are You, Hashem, our G-d, King of the universe, Who sanctifies us with His commandments and commands us to recite the prayer of thankfulness." This special prayer expresses our gratitude to Hashem for the miracles of Chanukah. Notably, the last three words of this blessing are "לקרא את ההלל" (to recite the prayer of thankfulness). This phrase begins with the Hebrew letters that spell לאה.
In fact, the name of the Jewish people, Yehudim, means to thank Hashem. Our gratitude to Hashem is at the very core and essence of our being! Furthermore, the pure oil of Chanukah symbolizes our pure, holy, and radiant soul. The light of our soul illuminates our lives—even in dark moments—with a brilliance that surpasses even the shining sun.
Today: Take a moment to look at the flames of the Chanukah candles and thank Hashem for your pure and holy soul that brings light into your life!
(Based on the teachings of the Arizal, and the Meor Einayim)
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