Chanukah 2025 has begun with violence.
Jews murdered for their faith while they celebrated miracles and light. Chanukah had always been about the uncomfortable intersection of being Jewish in a world that is not kind to minorities and difference. It had also always been about our strength, our ability to defend ourselves when attacked, to protect ourselves and our sacred spaces. If ever there was a time to lean into our Judith energy, it might be now.
We will not be darkened. We will continue to shine our light, to name and appreciate our miracles. We will mourn and we will continue.
Wishing a Chanukah of safety and warmth to everyone out there. We have survived worse. We will survive this.
Rabbi Emma Gottlieb
#Repost @ketubahring with @use.repost
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In the shadow of oppression, when foreign armies sought to crush the Jewish spirit, Judith (Yehudit) rose as a symbol of incredible courage. A widow armed with faith and determination, she devised a daring plan to save her people. She charmed the enemy general, and, in a moment of bravery, ended his life, throwing the invading forces into chaos and delivering our people to freedom.
Judith’s story is a legacy of strength for Jewish women throughout history. She reminds us of the power of acting even through fear, and the vital role women play in shaping the destiny of our people.
She’s a symbol of resilience and a reminder that women have always been at the forefront of defending our families, our faith, and our future.
For Jewish women, Judith embodies the strength to overcome challenges, the wisdom to lead, and the bravery to fight for justice. She teaches us that heroism can come in many forms, and the courage to stand unwavering in the face of adversity.
As we light the Hanukkah candles soon, let her legacy inspire us to embrace our inner strength and to stand tall in our convictions.
Happy (almost) Hanukkah 
