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

In defiance of recent violence against Jewish communities worldwide, a Hanukkah celebration in Utah is set to go ahead this Sunday. The decision comes in the wake of a tragic mass shooting during a Hanukkah gathering in Sydney, Australia, which has sent ripples of fear and anxiety through Jewish communities globally. However, three prominent rabbis from Utah have vowed that they will not let fear dictate their faith or their communal celebrations. Rabbi Benjamin Richman, Rabbi Rachel E. Nussbaum, and Rabbi Hillel A. Skier have expressed solidarity with the victims of the Sydney shooting and emphasized the importance of community resilience in the face of such terror. Rabbi Richman stated, "We will not give in to terror. This celebration is an integral part of our identity and faith, and together we stand firm against those who would seek to instill fear in our hearts." Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days, despite only being enough for one. This year, the significance of the festival is even more poignant as communities gather to light menorahs, sing traditional songs, and enjoy festive foods. The shared joy acts as a powerful symbol of hope and unity, especially against a backdrop of hatred and violence. The Utah celebration, which will involve lighting candles, sharing prayers, and communal meals, aims not just to commemorate an ancient miracle but to reaffirm community strength and collective faith. In a joint statement, the rabbis urged community members to engage in peace-building efforts and foster interfaith dialogues as a means of combatting growing intolerance. As public events unfold, community safety remains a priority, prompting local law enforcement to increase patrols around places of worship and celebration. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the spirit of Hanukkah can shine brightly, even amid darkness. The Jewish community in Utah, like many others around the world, is determined to celebrate their heritage with dignity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to peace—a resolute reminder that the light of hope can dispel shadows of fear.