When presented with the notion of light around the time of Hanukkah this year, I instantly thought about the idea of light expanding. During Hanukkah, in Jewish households across the globe, a menorah is lit during each of the eight nights. As you may know, this custom originates from the fact the original menorah, a seven-branched candelabra that stood in the Temple in Jerusalem, was lit every day by the high priest. Today, it is standard to light a Hanukkiah, which was later developed with nine branches to symbolize the eight days that the oil burned, and one extra for the jar of oil that was discovered. When lighting a hanukkiah, one starts with a singular flame, the shamash, and expands outwards to reach a total of nine lighted candles. The Menorah has a central stem that extends outwards, similar to how exhibiting kindness, and branching out towards others can influence people to illuminate the world.

The light literally expands until the very last night when all eight candles have been lit. This expansion of light is a profound metaphor for how light, or good deeds, can be positively influential in the world. There’s the idea that Jews should be a “light unto the nations”, which I understand to mean that by practicing Judaism and being an honest and good person to others, one can become a role model and others will follow suit by benefiting the world. People from other nations will see the example you have set and will be influenced positively by it. By being a light “unto the nations”, you provide the spark that allows others to become a light that spreads or expands. The celebration of Hanukkah marks a victory of light over darkness. This idea fully relates to the concept that a menorah serves as a powerful symbol of light, spreading throughout the world. Today, as you move forward with your life after Hanukkah I challenge you to find new ways to expand your light into the world. Especially at these still uncertain times, when we are all attempting to find our way back to “normal”, it’s important to look out for others and spread your light and kindness.