Hanukkah is a celebration of Jewish pride and identity. With its roots in the Maccabean revolt around 165 BCE, the Festival of Lights is a yearly reminder of the dynamic tension that has characterized the relationship between Judaism and society – the challenge to maintain tradition while also being relevant in the age. This relationship has allowed (and demanded) that Judaism evolve continually – in its forms and perspectives, and remain significant. It is this very tension that has inspired Jews and Judaism to be creative throughout our history – healthy Jewish expression has grown and changed throughout the years. Perhaps there is no better example of Judaism’s progressive nature than the realm of religious practice and ritual. It is in this area that we see, perhaps slowly, the most meaningful representation of evolving Jewish identity and understanding. For nothing describes Jewish life and culture as fundamentally as our liturgy and rituals, and the art that emerge from them. Here’s a fabulous example, from NPR’s “Morning Edition”, December 11, 2009:
An exhibit at the Jewish Museum in New York has everything from green energy synagogues to a prayer shawl that doubles as an apron. Many of the works are influenced by environmentalism and feminism. There are menorahs just in time for Chanukah that invite people to look at lighting the candles in a very different way.
(go to www.npr.org to hear the full story)
The vibrant relationship between Jewish heritage and the world in which we live is a great blessing, for which we give thanks as we celebrate Hanukkah, dedicating ourselves anew as agents of freedom, compassion and justice. HAPPY HANUKKAH!
that exhibit was really cool - i saw it on my great new york adventure of december!
ReplyDeletewell-put, rabbi.