A Chanukiah in Every Window

Chanukah is a great holiday. There is tasty food (who does not like things fried in deep oil?), bright colored candles, and school vacation. Unfortunately I have to go to work, but my boss is away so at least my days are quieter. Chanukah is actually one of the more low key holidays. In theory an 8 day holiday sounds like a lot of work (like Passover), but with minimal religious obligations and no one big meal to stress about, people are usually pretty relaxed.

Lighting candles is one of mitzvot of Chanukah that is enjoyed and celebrated at all ages. As a little girl I remember choosing the color combinations of the candles that I wanted each night and then lit the candles and sang the prayers beside my brothers. What I find fascinating in Tel Aviv is that everyone lights candles here, even in stores and businesses. The other night I stopped by the video store on my way home from the gym. As I walked in there was music blasting from the speakers and moments later one of the men behind the counter said: “Can I have your attention please? We would like to light candles now.” The ironic thing is that these guys didn’t even know the blessings. They asked if anyone in the store wanted to say them. I was all ready to volunteer but then I suddenly had a brain freeze and forgot the prayers. Just the night before I was at a candle lighting party and heard them sung but at this instant they escaped me. After a few awkward moments of silence a girl came in and said them and everyone went back to life as they knew it.

When I got home I went straight towards my chanukiah (the same one I have been using since my bat mitzvah) picked out the colors that I liked best and lit the candles. I can’t wait to do it again tonight.

Chag Sameach!