Joseph and Hannukah- A story for the ages
The story of Joseph is the longest short story in the Torah- stretching over four Parashiyot, it takes us to the end of Sefer Bereshet.
Joseph is an important transitional figure in Jewish history. He takes us from the world of Abraham, Isaac, and Yaakov, living in the Land of Cannan all the way up to the introduction of Moshe and Am Yisrael, living in Egypt.
Amazingly, we always read about this story right around the holiday of Hannukah- coincidence?
What does the Joseph story have to teach us about Hannukah?
There are of course some seemingly trivial but fun facts between the two:
Parashat Vayashev, where the story starts, is a curious Parashah. Almost every one of the 112 pesukim begins with the letter Vav, except nine pesukim, equal to the number of candles on the Hanukkiah. (8+1)
Second fun fact: it is written that Yaacov and his Family went to Goshen,”
Goshnah”. Is spelled gimel, shin, nun, heh, the same four letters found on the dreidel!
Additionally, the gematria of the four letters is 358…the same numerical value as the word Mashiach…. Interesting fun facts!
But the key connection between the Joseph story and Hannukah has to do with the challenge Joseph faced living as a Hebrew in a foreign culture, a stranger in a strange land. He was miraculously elevated to the title of Viceroy of Egypt, and yet he knew that he must stay focused on his tradition and upbringing. He refused to yield to the temptations of all the splendor of Egypt. He stood strong in his Jewishness, always knowing that Hashem was really protecting him and preparing him for the future. It would have been easy for Joseph to cave in to being one of the “boys” of Egypt, to assimilate to the Egyptian culture and forget his family. But He never forgets where he comes from- the family of Yaacov Avenu. He knew that he was always his Brother’s keeper- for now and the future.
The same can be said about the Matityahu and the Maccabees in their quest to save the Jewish people. Joseph's unwavering faith and perseverance despite adversity are comparable to the Maccabees' steadfastness in defending their faith, their land and their people. The Jews at the time were spiritually stifled, having to observe mitzvot secretly, while the Greek values and idolatry were thrust in their faces, backed by a strong Greek military threat. The challenges and adversity to Torah ideology and commitment were immense, and Torah observance was banned. Yet, despite this all, the Hashmonaim and their followers persevered and emerged victoriously.
It seems to me that what we learn from both of these stories is that if we, as Klal Yisrael, stay together, embrace each other, we too, can overcome adversity. Despite the challenges Joseph faced, he maintained his faith in God and ultimately found redemption. Similarly, the Maccabees' victory and the rededication of the Temple signified a triumph of faith over oppression.
The story of Hannukah also highlights the importance of religious freedom.
It teaches us, the Jewish People, the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
It reminds us to remain hopeful and steadfast in our own beliefs.
Hannukah demonstrates the power of our Jewish faith and the ability to overcome challenges.
We are successful when our convictions are strong, and we are successful when our faith is firm.
The lighting of the Menorah symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, representing the victory of the Maccabees and the enduring spirit of our Jewish Faith.
One last thought on the Chanukiah. The flames of the menorah, all in a perfect row of lights, are a magnificent sight.
But, then comes the shamash, a little higher up and in a row by itself.
In the same idea, it is wonderful thing for a person to devote his life to self-enhancement, always working to be the best he can be – that is admirable; but it is not what will ultimately allow him to reach his greatest height.
It’s when a person becomes a shamash, where he dedicates his life to helping others, where he becomes a conduit, a spreader of light, love and hope, that he can empower and inspire others. To dream alone is awesome, but to help others realize their dreams is even greater because you bring out the best in others and in yourself.
Being a “shamash” represents to us the Jewish concept of community service, leadership and guidance.
May all your days be bright….