Amid the hustle and bustle of daily life, the importance of Hanukkah is more important than ever. This Jewish holiday, filled with light and tradition, offers an opportunity to reflect, connect, and find strength in rituals, particularly during challenging times. This year, the holiday took on an even deeper significance following a tragic event that shook the Jewish community.
Cherishing Hanukkah Traditions
I am a Jewish mother of two young children and this year, Hanukkah began with a heavy heart due to the targeted attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. Despite this tragedy, I found solace in the rituals of this minor Jewish celebration. Many years ago, I was introduced to a concept that profoundly shaped my understanding of Jewish rituals and actions.
Jewish Perspective on Ritual and Action
During Yom Kippur, Holy Blossom Temple, the reform synagogue I attended growing up, offered insightful lectures as a means to provide spiritual nourishment. I vividly remember a talk by Evan Solomon, a prominent Canadian Jew, that greatly influenced my perspective. His message was clear: Judaism emphasizes the importance of good deeds, regardless of the motivation behind them.
Every Hanukkah is a reminder to me that it’s cool to be different
This idea has greatly impacted my understanding of Jewish rituals and actions and has even permeated into other areas of my life, including parenting.
Applying Jewish Principles to Parenting
Parenting, like any other aspect of life, involves the repetition of rituals and routine. Recently, when my family was struck by the flu, I found myself leaning on Solomon’s principle. Even in my moments of weakness, I reminded myself that while I may not feel like a good parent, I must act like one. This principle of ‘doing the thing’ has served as a guiding light in my journey as a parent.
Even as a largely cultural, non-religious Jew, the significance of rituals has grown more profound for me, especially after the incident on Oct. 7, 2023.
Finding Strength in Rituals
In the aftermath of the attack, a group of us, all non-practicing Jews in our thirties, gathered to honor the victims. Despite our initial uncertainty, we found comfort in reciting the Mourner’s Kaddish, the Jewish prayer for the dead. This ancient prayer, written in Aramaic, connected us to our roots and brought forth a wave of emotions I hadn’t expected. This experience made me realize the power of rituals and the inherent strength they offer.
Hanukkah: A Time for Reflection and Connection
Hanukkah provides an opportunity to engage in familiar rituals year after year. This year, it will be my daughter’s first and my son’s fourth time experiencing it. While the meaning behind these rituals may vary each year, their significance remains. They serve as a reminder of our rich heritage and provide a sense of stability and continuity in our lives.
Jessica Rose lives in Toronto.
