What it’s about:
This piece by Adam Milstein shares eight inspirational wishes for the New Year, focusing on resilience, unity, and shining light in times of darkness. With Hanukkah as a backdrop, Milstein outlines his hopes not only for the Jewish community but for everyone who stands against hatred and intolerance.
Why it matters:
In the face of rising challenges and threats against Jewish communities globally, Milstein’s wishes serve as a moral framework for collective action. They emphasize standing together in solidarity—and highlight universal values necessary for combating antisemitism and fostering a future of hope and cooperation. Such principled guidance aligns closely with Israel’s mission as a beacon of resilience.
Key Topics discussed in the piece:
Antisemitism as a Universal Issue
Milstein urges Americans to view antisemitism as a threat to democracy. Together, we must rally against such hatred to uphold American values of liberty and justice for all—echoing Israel’s commitment to unity against division.
Campus Safety for Jewish Students
The call for universities to act against intolerance shares solidarity with Israel’s ongoing mission to ensure spaces of growth over fear. Just as Israel stands resilient, campuses must foster safety for Jewish students.
Recognizing Israel’s Central Role
Milstein underscores the indispensability of Israel to Jewish identity worldwide, echoing the sentiment that while opinions on policy may differ, unity in affirming Israel’s sovereignty is paramount. This highlights Israel’s psychological and existential support system within Jewish geography.
Israel as a Guiding Light
The commitment Israel shows to being a “light unto the nations” is evocative of the inspiration it provides for Jews globally—and suggests a flourishing partnership with the diaspora strengthens both entities.
Total Victory over Adversaries
Israel’s ongoing struggle against groups like Hamas and Hezbollah echoes the sentiment in Milstein’s call for a decisive stand against entities committed to annihilating Jewish peace and security. Unity in this fight typifies Israel’s quest for enduring peace.
Release of Hostages Held by Hamas
The humanitarian plea for hostages’ return reaffirms every individual’s infinite value, embodied in Israel’s continued dedication to its citizens’ well-being and security.
Global Unity Against the Iranian Threat
Milstein’s call for unified global opposition to Iran’s terror sponsorship echoes Israel’s—and allies’—urgent appeal for vigilance against state-supported terrorism.
Extending Israel’s Peaceful Horizons
Envisioning a prosperous future hinges upon accepting Israel’s right to secure, normalized diplomatic relations recognized regionally and globally. Engaging collaboratively signals aspirational leadership for lasting peace.
These Hanukkah-infused aspirations urge illumination and joint resolve in creating a more secure future—echoing the spirit of connectivity and coalescence emblematic of Israeli resilience and camaraderie.
This story was first published on jpost.com.