Hanukkah celebration proceeds as Utah rabbis 'will not give in to terror'

In a show of resilience and unity, the annual Hanukkah celebration in Utah will take place as planned this Sunday, despite a tragic mass shooting incident during a similar event in Sydney. This decision comes from three local rabbis who have vowed, "We will not give in to terror," underlining their commitment to community and faith in the face of adversity. The unfortunate events in Sydney, where gun violence disrupted the warmth and joy typically associated with the Festival of Lights, have cast a shadow over gatherings celebrating Jewish traditions worldwide. However, rather than allowing fear to dictate their actions, the Utah rabbis are determined to honor the spirit of Hanukkah. This holiday, which symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and hope over despair, serves as a powerful reminder of resilience. Rabbi Benjamin Scolnic, Rabbi Hertz Frankel, and Rabbi Ezra B. Goldstein, who have been pivotal in organizing the Utah celebration, expressed their grave concern for the victims in Sydney but emphasized the importance of coming together as a community. In their statement, they conveyed, "Terror cannot extinguish our light; it strengthens our resolve to celebrate our faith and culture even more fervently." The Utah event will feature traditional Hanukkah rituals, including the lighting of the menorah, singing of festive songs, and sharing the story of the Maccabees' victory, which is central to the Hanukkah narrative. Attendees are encouraged to participate fully, fostering an atmosphere of inclusiveness and shared faith. Local community leaders are expected to join the celebration, reinforcing solidarity and support for the Jewish community. As the event draws near, many participants are inspired by the words of the rabbis, promising to stand together against hate and violence. The strength of this community, paired with the profound significance of Hanukkah, serves not only to honor tradition but also to affirm a collective stance against intimidation. This year’s Hanukkah celebration in Utah serves as a poignant reminder of the power of hope, community, and the resolve to overcome fear, marking it a spiritually significant occasion amidst difficult global challenges.