Hanukkah Light in a Dark World

Mendel Horowitz, First Things

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Before the Hamas war against Israel, the election of Zohran Mamdani as mayor of New York City, and yesterday’s shooting attack in Australia, I associated Hanukkah with triumph rather than despair. The eight-day festival, which began at sundown on Sunday, was an opportunity to recognize Jewish perseverance and share Jewish light. This year is different. While menorahs are ordinarily displayed outdoors in celebration, during times of danger the Talmud suggests kindling Hanukkah lights discreetly. Even without overt peril, mounting hostility toward Jews draws me inward and homeward.