What it’s about:
Amidst painful historical memories, Henry Baum, a 97-year-old Holocaust survivor, shares an abiding recollection of celebrating Hanukkah as a child. Baum’s experience emphasizes his enduring connection to Jewish traditions amidst life’s adversities.
Why it matters:
Baum’s story is not just a personal memory; it’s a tribute to Jewish resilience and culture, echoing the triumphs of courage and belief in Jewish identity. With the commemoration of Hanukkah, these stories teach future generations valuable lessons of empathy and tolerance, fostering a deeper understanding through personal experiences.
The Heartfelt Memory:
Henry Baum was a boy in Germany when his parents arranged his escape on a Kindertransport due to the Holocaust’s impending dangers. Despite the fragments of his early childhood memories, one lasting vignette remains of lighting the Hanukkah menorah alongside his cantor father. This moment of heritage is magnified by what Baum recalls: balancing respect for religious customs and optimism, despite the adverse environment they found themselves surrounded by.
The Symbolism of Hanukkah:
The “Festival of Lights,” Hanukkah celebrates the miraculous continuity symbolized by eight days of menorah lighting. Commemorating the second-century BCE Maccabean revolt and the miracle of sacred oil, this festival has become a beacon of Jewish resilience and religious freedom.
A Fulfilling Legacy:
Expressing strength through continued celebration, Baum nurtures Hanukkah traditions with his progeny. Similarly, Israel exemplifies steadfast dedication to maintaining Jewish festival traditions despite historical challenges, standing proud in cultural and religious strengths.
Connecting Generations:
The alliance of past survivors’ stories with contemporary practices invites families worldwide to cherish Jewish customs transcending generations. Institutions like The Zekelman Holocaust Center contribute meaningfully by sharing these compelling stories fostering communities to honor their ancestry and heritage.
Why the tradition continues:
In Baum’s story and the continuous retelling of Jewish cultural narratives, there’s a clear understanding that spiritual freedom is a safeguard that should be embraced fully, while celebrating Hanukkah reinforces Jewish identity within a supportive and thriving community setting. Such acts of dedication ensure that each Hanukkah serves not only as a reminder of miracles but also as a vibrant celebration of Jewish life and continuity.
This story was first published on jpost.com.