What’s happening:
This Hanukkah, Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff will display three menorahs with deep historical significance, symbolizing both the joy and the trauma experienced by the Jewish community.
Why it matters:
The menorahs represent more than the traditional Hanukkah celebration; they carry poignant stories from Jewish history, including the triumph over adversity and the remembrance of tragedy. Their presence in the offices of the Vice President and the Second Gentleman sends a powerful message of solidarity with the Jewish community and a stand against antisemitism.
Menorahs on loan:
The menorahs on display are on loan from the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, the Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum, and the Jewish Museum in New York. Each holds a significant story: from the site of the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history to the work of a Holocaust survivor.
The significance of each menorah:
1. The Tree of Life Menorah:
A symbol of resilience in the face of the horrific antisemitic attack on the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, this menorah was designed by the renowned architect Daniel Libeskind.
2. The Thieberger Menorah:
Created by Holocaust survivor Erwin Thieberger, this menorah was crafted from nails and scrap metal, reminiscent of his time in concentration camps. It is a stark reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people.
3. The Kahilath Jakob Menorah:
Designed by Josef Haller and presented to a Viennese prayer room, this menorah survived the Nazi occupation of Austria, symbolizing the perseverance of faith amidst persecution.
Combating antisemitism:
Emhoff, who has shaped the Biden administration’s antisemitism strategy, highlights the importance of these artifacts in the ongoing effort to combat hate and promote Jewish pride. The Second Couple’s choice of menorahs reflects a dedication to these values.
Celebrating Hanukkah:
The lighting of the national menorah and the Hanukkah party at the Naval Observatory, along with the Bidens’ celebration at the White House, showcases the nation’s recognition of the Festival of Lights and its significance to American Jews.
Related tags:
Hanukkah, Tree of Life synagogue, Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, Kamala Harris
This story was first published on jpost.com.