From Darkness to Light: The Power of Shabbat and Holiday Candles
Contributed by Rabbi Mendy Greenberg
Jewish communities worldwide will celebrate Simchat Torah, the most joyous holiday of the year, on October 24th and 25th. This festival marks the culmination of a season filled with significant holidays, starting with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, followed by Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, and Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, which begins at sundown on October 16th.
Simchat Torah celebrates the annual cycle of Torah readings, encompassing the five books of Moses divided into 54 portions, read each Shabbat. The holiday concludes this cycle, prompting us to begin anew, as the pursuit of divine wisdom is never-ending. Each year deepens our appreciation and understanding of the Torah.
The observance of this holiday includes joyful dancing in synagogues and the streets while holding closed Torah scrolls, wrapped in their covers. This symbolizes the Jewish people’s inherent connection to the Torah, transcending differences in knowledge and understanding.
Last year, Simchat Torah fell on October 7, 2023, and was overshadowed by tragedy, as terrorists launched the most devastating attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. As we approach the anniversary on the Jewish calendar, we reflect on how we can support Jewish communities worldwide, especially those in the holy land of Israel, in their efforts to protect themselves against forces of darkness.
Every illness has symptoms and root causes. The events of October 7 represent a symptom, and while we must take physical protective measures led by the IDF and allied nations, the root cause lies in a spiritual battle between good and evil. Darkness is combated not only with physical weapons but also by illuminating the world through positive thoughts, words, and actions—mitzvot—that bring holy energy and light.
Though our limited senses may not perceive the light generated by our good deeds, some actions have visible impacts. One such mitzvah is the lighting of Shabbat and holiday candles. Every Shabbat and holiday begins 18 minutes before sundown, when Jewish women and girls light candles and recite a blessing, ushering in the sanctity of the occasion. Each candle lit adds to the physical and spiritual light in our world.
Fifty years ago, following the Yom Kippur War in 1973, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, the Jewish spiritual leader of our generation, initiated a campaign to raise awareness of this cherished tradition. He emphasized the importance of Jewish women and girls lighting Shabbat and holiday candles to combat the increasing darkness in our world. Since then, millions have embraced this practice, making our world a brighter and better place.
Before lighting the candles, women and girls contribute to charity, bringing light and warmth to those in need. This practice underscores the importance of charity, reminding us that everyone—whether Jewish or not, adult or child— can make a difference. Giving to charity daily, even a small amount, helps create a kinder, holier world.
This year, as we commemorate the tragic events of October 7, there is no better time to renew awareness of this vital mitzvah in the fight against conflict and hatred.
In Jewish tradition, the number three holds significant meaning, known as “Chazaka.” Actions or customs are deemed established after being observed three times. This year, three of the four holidays ushering in the new year of 5785 begin on Wednesday evening, leading directly into Shabbat on Friday night and Saturday. The significance of lighting candles for three consecutive nights emphasizes the power of these actions to increase light and positivity at the start of the year.
Let us embrace this opportunity to shine brighter together. As we stand tall and proud of our identity and values, may we strengthen our faith and trust in G‑d, who has always watched over us and will continue to protect us. Through the lighting of candles, may we chase away any remnants of darkness and evil, bringing about the ultimate light of redemption with the coming of Moshiach, speedily in our time.
Please see page… for the appropriate candle lighting times in Palmer, Alaska, and the appropriate blessings.