Chanukah, Chaos, And The Heroes Who Light The Way

Photo Credit: Jamal Awad/Flash90

Israeli soldiers operating on the Syrian side of the border fence, Dec. 15, 2024.

Chanukah is the holiday of light, the time we celebrate miracles, eat fried food guilt-free, and remind ourselves that, yes, eight days of oil from one tiny jar is still pretty impressive. But this year, the glow of the menorah feels heavier, more profound. Since October 7, 2023, the Middle East has seen unimaginable tragedy, including terrorist attacks on Israel, and now, Syria’s government has collapsed with Bashar al-Assad fleeing the country.

Amid the darkness, though, we are reminded of those who fought to bring light into the world. One of my cousins, David Lubin from Atlanta, sent me an advanced copy of a new booklet from the World Zionist Organization (WZO), released for Chanukah, which introduces us to eight modern heroes – individuals who gave their lives for Israel and embody the very values this holiday celebrates. One of those heroes is his daughter Rose. Hers and the other stories, paired with Chanukah traditions, challenge us to reflect, connect, and ask: How can we bring a little more light into today’s chaos?

The Maccabees of Then – and Now

Chanukah’s story is timeless: a small group of Maccabees stood up against a massive empire to protect their faith and freedom. It’s the ultimate underdog tale. Fast forward to today, and we see echoes of their courage in the heroes featured in the booklet. Each one represents a value as enduring as the flames on the menorah.

Like the Maccabees, these individuals fought not just with weapons but with purpose, resilience, and a deep love for their people and their land. Their stories remind us that, even when the odds seem stacked against us, miracles are possible – but we must take the first step.

Meet the Modern Heroes

This booklet isn’t just about honoring the past; it’s about learning from the present. Here’s a glimpse into the eight heroes whose lives and values shine as brightly as the candles on the menorah:

1. Ben Zussman (Sense of Duty): At 22, Ben’s final message to his family was to celebrate his life, not mourn his loss. Ben was a good friend of the son of one of our closest friends in Israel. My wife and I saw a poster with his photo in Paris last summer as part of an awareness campaign to gain support for releasing the hostages.
2. Roei Dawy (Love for the Land): A Givati Brigade soldier who cherished Israel’s soil and his sister’s tiramisu. His story connects us to the deeper meaning of land and home.
3. Rose Lubin (Responsibility): At 21, Rose stood tall defending Kibbutz Sa’ad and the Old City of Jerusalem, proving that greatness starts with taking responsibility for others.
4. Roi Nahary (Humility): Roi balanced bravery with humility, always putting others first. His quiet strength teaches us to appreciate the miracles around us.
5. Amit Mann (Light): A paramedic who became the shamash – the helper candle – bringing light to others even as she sacrificed her own.
6. Guy Simhi (The Common Good): Guy’s bravery saved his friends during an attack, embodying the unity behind “Am Yisrael Chai.”
7. Yakir Levi (Happiness): Yakir’s joy and faith remind us that even in dark times, a smile can be a powerful act of defiance.
8. Liron Snir (Victory of the Spirit): Liron’s final words were for his comrades, not himself. His spirit reflects the enduring power of selflessness and hope.

Why Their Stories Matter

Each night of Chanukah, the booklet encourages us to reflect on these heroes by lighting a candle, learning their story, and doing an activity in their memory – whether it’s making Roei’s tiramisu or giving tzedakah like Rose would have. These aren’t just acts of remembrance; they’re steps toward embodying the values these heroes lived by.

And here’s the kicker: these values, courage, humility, responsibility, aren’t relics of the past. They’re the same principles the Maccabees fought for and the same ones the Middle East desperately needs now, especially in the wake of Assad’s departure.

Syria, Chaos, and the Call for Light

Let’s not sugarcoat it: the Middle East is in turmoil. Syria’s collapse brings both uncertainty and opportunity. Will it lead to more chaos or a glimmer of hope? Time will tell. But Chanukah teaches us not to wait for miracles; it teaches us to act.

The Maccabees didn’t sit around hoping someone else would fix things – they lit the first candle. Today, we can do the same by showing up for each other, standing against injustice, and working to rebuild communities torn apart by conflict. Being a shamash – the one who lights the others – is how we move forward.

A Chanukah Challenge

This year, as we light the menorah, let’s ask ourselves: What can we learn from these heroes? How can we bring more light to a world that feels so dark? Maybe it’s a small act of kindness, a commitment to tzedakah, or simply sharing their stories. Whatever it is, remember: even one tiny jar of oil can change the world.

The booklet invites us to honor these eight heroes, reflect on their values, and turn our Chanukah celebrations into something deeply meaningful. It’s not just about remembering their sacrifice – it’s about carrying their light forward.

So, download the booklet, light your candles, and let’s make this Chanukah a time to celebrate courage, hope, and responsibility. And while you’re at it, maybe save some latkes for your neighbors. After all, the world could use a little more light – and a lot more donuts.