21 Kislev 5780 | December 19, 2019
Introduction and welcome (Rabba Sara Hurwitz)
The gemara speaks about Chanukah, a holiday which has already been around for ages, but asks what Chanukah is. Rabba Sara Hurwitz speaks about why the opening question asks something much deeper.
Li’hodot ul’hallel: Thanking God for Miracles (Rabbanit Devorah Zlochower)
The insertions of hallel and al hanissim on Chanukah enable us to properly thank God for the events of the Chanukah story. This form of hallel, says Rabbanit Devorah Zlochower, is an institutionalized response, bridging the generational gap through a modified understanding of Rav Soloveitchik.
Chanukah Candles & Shalom Bayit: Masechet Shabbat 23B (Rabbi Adam Mintz)
Masechet Shabbat asks about the competing values of Chanukah candles, publicizing the miracle, and Shabbat candles, creating a peaceful environment. However, Rabbi Adam Mintz moves on to the Tosafot which relies on the next half of the gemara to show the practical applications of choosing the values of Chanukah candles over Shabbat wine.
The Pagan High Priest: Crossdressing, Betrayal, and a Little Brother (Rabba Wendy Amsellem)
In two contradictory narratives about Chonyo the kohen, a talmudic story about brothers locked in a power struggle, he is painted as both victim and perpetrator. Further, in the one, he stays devoted to God; in the other, he becomes a Pagan priest. Rabba Wendy Amsellem discusses the role of gender and the importance of a supportive community.
Chassidic Insights into Chanukah (Rabbi Dr. Erin Leib Smokler)
The berachah of shehecheyanu juxtaposes the times of yore and the modern world. Rabbi Dr. Erin Leib Smokler cites a Kedushat Levi on the nature of miracles today being here and present, but smaller and demanding a closer look to find God.
When Athens and Jerusalem First Met: the True Light of Chanukah (Rabbi Jeffrey Fox)
When Alexander the Great arrived in Jerusalem, he was willing to show subjugation before Shimon HaTzaddik. Rabbi Jeffrey Fox speaks about the power of Shimon HaTzaddik and the ways we bring together Athens and Jerusalem.