Jo-Anne Brown
Beth Jacob Synagogue

With the High Holy Days and Autumn Festivals behind us, here at Beth Jacob our focus turns to Chanukah. Being in a building that is home to people of different religions, it got me to thinking, how many world religions have their own Festival of Lights. It’s interesting to discover how many faiths use light as a symbol of hope, goodness, knowledge, and the victory of good over evil.

Hinduism celebrates Diwali, often called the Festival of Lights. During this celebration, people light small oil lamps called diyas, decorate their homes, exchange gifts, and gather with family and friends. Diwali represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is also a time for renewal, prosperity, and new beginnings. Sounds familiar to me.

In Buddhism, Vesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha. Although it is not always called a Festival of Lights, many communities celebrate by lighting lanterns and candles. These lights symbolize wisdom, compassion, and the importance of overcoming ignorance through understanding.

Sikhism celebrates Bandi Chhor Divas, which coincides with Diwali. The holiday remembers Guru Hargobind Ji's release from imprisonment and his efforts to secure the freedom of other prisoners. Sikh communities celebrate with illuminated gurdwaras, prayers, and gatherings. Light represents freedom, justice, and spiritual strength.

Our Festival of Lights, Chanukah, commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after we reclaimed it. According to our tradition, a small amount of sacred oil, enough for one day, miraculously burned for eight days. Today, we celebrate by lighting the chanukiah, adding one candle each night, saying blessings, and gathering with family and friends. 

All these festivals have different histories and meanings. Each tradition offers its own lessons about faith, courage, freedom, wisdom, & goodness. It reminds us that, despite our differences, we can still find meaningful connections. Perhaps these festivals can encourage us to appreciate one another's traditions and help bring more understanding and most importantly light into our shared world.

This year, the Beth Jacob is having their Congregational Chanukah dinner on Wednesday, December 9th at 6pm. If you would like to join us, please reach out to the office at [email protected] or 905-522-1351.