What’s happening

In the stillness of a shattered home in Kibbutz Be’eri, Yuval Haran lights a menorah that stood as a beacon of hope and resilience amidst loss. This menorah, salvaged from the ruins, has become a powerful symbol of perseverance through adversity.

Why it matters

This lighting ceremony is not just a religious observance but a profound statement of human endurance. It represents the light that endures in the face of the darkest times, a narrative that is especially poignant for the Haran family, who have suffered abduction and the tragic loss of a family member.

The symbolism of the menorah

The eight candles of the menorah each hold special significance for Yuval Haran. Six candles honor the family members who returned after a harrowing ordeal. The seventh candle represents the ongoing hope for the return of Yuval’s brother-in-law, Tal Shoham, and the eighth is a tribute to the life of Yuval’s father Avshalom, whose presence continues to be felt despite his tragic passing.

The bigger picture

The act of lighting the menorah in such a setting goes beyond tradition, becoming a moment of reflection on the journey through grief and hope. It underscores the resilience of the human spirit, a theme universally resonant and particularly touching during the festival of Hanukkah, which celebrates the miracle of light prevailing over darkness.

The backdrop

The Haran family’s story, tied to the broader context of conflict, resonates with the themes of Hanukkah. Their experience and the act of lighting the menorah in their former home serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for peace and the enduring spirit of those affected by conflict.

This story was first published on jpost.com.