Rabbi Romer lights the first candle
KINGSTON – Temperatures dropped from wet and freezing to windy and downright frigid Tuesday night, as winter slowly settled in over the Hudson Valley. Dotted across the region, Jewish households lit menorah candles to mark the first night of Hanukkah.
The minor Jewish holiday commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire, in 165 BCE.
In Kingston, Rabbi Yael Romer of Congregation Emanuel Temple on Albany Avenue provided a modern interpretation in the context of today’s issues and events.
“What really drives home for me, in 2017, is that Hanukkah is ultimately a real statement and affirmation that religious coercion anywhere is not acceptable,” Rabbi Romer said. “That is our Jewish value and also a value in America, where we are so fortunate to have a separation of church and state, so that we can fully celebrate our tradition here; and the government can reflect, honor and respect all the diversity, that is what makes America great.”
Hanukkah is celebrated for eight nights, and each night, an additional candle is lit.
“Hanukkah is traditionally celebrated in the home, bringing together the family to wonderfully celebrate magic and miracles in our lives, and also of course the historical miracle,” the rabbi noted, referring to the temple flame burning for eight evenings following victory, when there was only enough lamp oil for one.
Congregation Emanuel will be hosting an open house 7 p.m. Friday night, December 15, the fourth night of Hanukkah, for an evening of food, dancing, songs, mystical storytelling, games, community, and candle lighting. All are welcome.
