For my fellow Jews who, like I, long for a ceasefire and are wondering how to celebrate Chanukah . . . Day 1 [View all]
From Rabbis For Ceasefire: Our Candle Lighting Companion provides daily kavanot, intentions, for each candle as well as a song for each day, offered with love and grief and determination.
SHAMASH CANDLE: SHOMRIM: WE KEEP EACH OTHER SAFE
As antisemitism and islamophobia rise, may we find safety through solidarity. We light our candles in windows and other public places to proudly display our Jewish heritage and the Chanukah miracle. We also publicly display our commitment to solidarity and interdependence. May we turn again and again towards a vision of mutual safety and care.
Our Power by Rena Branson
We will not underestimate
Our power any longer—
We know that together, we are strong.
Like drops of water shape the rocks
As they rush down the falls,
We know that together,
We are strong.
CANDLE 1: LO V’CHAYIL: CEASEFIRE
In the Haftarah we read on the first Shabbat of Chanukah we recite the words: lo v’chayil, lo v’koach, ki im b’ruchi. Not by might, not by power, but by spirit alone. We are embracing the rabbinic tradition that reminds us it is by ruach–by our spirit that we survive and thrive, not by militarism. Ceasefire means no more bombing of families and homes in Gaza. Ceasefire means all hostages must be released now. Ceasefire means we need immediate engagement by the international community toward a just and lasting peace in Israel/Palestine. Ceasefire is the only way to prevent more death and destruction. In this moment of tremendous fear and suffering, we believe there is no military solution. There is only a political one. May we commit ourselves to a path of life and away from the path of war and ongoing violence.
Not By Might by Debbie Friedman
Not by might
And not by power
But by spirit alone
Shall we all live in peace
The children sing
The children dream
And their tears may fall, but we’ll hear them call
And another song will rise
Another song will rise
Another song will rise!
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