WJC Voices: Winter 2023

WINTER 2023

THE MAGAZINE OF WESTCHESTER JEWISH CENTER

Celebrating Winter Lights as an Antidote to Darker Days

WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 1

Editor’s Note

Hanukkah Reflections

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early a year has passed since my family and I had the pleasure to tour Israel with Rabbi Arnowitz (and family) and several other WJC families. Having not visited in over thirty years, I was eager to share the enchantment of Eretz Yisrael with my children.

Our timing couldn’t have been more perfect, as we explored the Holy City during Hanukkah and basked in the glow of one menorah after another. The vibrancy and joy that permeated the land surpassed mere present giving, leaving an indelible mark on all of us.

Now, a year later, I contemplate how Hanukkah, a celebration brimming with life and unity, will unfold this year. Perhaps we have to look no further than the Maccabees themselves. As we write about in this issue, the Maccabee story is a cautionary tale of the importance of unity for the survival and prosperity of the Jewish people. They are symbols of resistance and determination that have been summoned time and again to help Jews persevere and overcome tumultuous times.

In examining the Maccabees and their story, we also contemplate Hanukkah’s timing. Why does the Festival of Lights unfold in the cold winter months? Is it purely coincidental that both Hanukkah and Christmas coincide with the season of shorter days and longer nights? Our longtime congregant, Dr. Samuel Glazer, adds insight into Seasonal Depression Disorder—a particularly relevant topic amidst the current rise in mental health challenges. Consider our Let There Be Light article a preview to Dr. Glazer’s January 11 “Beyond the Bimah” conversation with Rabbi Arnowitz on mental health and addiction.

The creation of Kolot is a collective labor of love. As always, we invite all congregants to contribute. Reach out to Katie Schlientz, our Editorial Services Director, at klschlientz@gmail.com to participate and lend your voice.

The Kolot team extends warm wishes to our entire community for a Hanukkah filled with light. May the glow of the Hanukkiah illuminate a path to peace for all.

Evan J. Schapiro THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS JEREMY BLACHMAN is the author of two satirical novels about the legal profession, and a ghostwriter working with industry leaders. He and his wife, Nina, and sons, Micah (10) and Rafi (6), are members of WJC. 2 • WJC Voices | Winter 2023

BARBARA RICHTER lives in Larchmont and runs two ghostwriting and writingassistance companies.

RABBI JEFFREY ARNOWITZ became the Senior Rabbi of Westchester Jewish Center in August 2019.

What’s Inside EDITOR’S NOTE: The planning of this issue of Kolot occurred long before the barbaric events of October 7. Although our feature stories do reference the tragedy, this magazine would of course look very different if we had been building it from scratch after what happened. We decided to stick with our Hanukkah theme, but it would be negligent not to acknowledge the profound impact of the events of October 7 and the subsequent tremors felt in our world and our community. Am Yisrael Chai.

8 FOR THE LOVE OF TORAH Claire Shoyer’s journey from dressing up as the Torah in fifth grade to serving as WJC’s rabbinical intern.

14 22 FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME WJC member Jessica Berman leads the National Women’s Soccer League to new heights.

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GLOBAL CELEBRATIONS OF HANUKKAH A cultural tapestry of light.

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LATKE MEMORIES Glenna Lee shares memories and a nostalgic recipe.

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HOW IS ATTENDING MINYAN MEANINGFUL TO YOU? Louise Cohen inquires about congregants’ connection to minyan.

10 NES GADOL HAYA — SHAM! Unveiling the secrets of the dreidel: myths, history, and an interview with an avid collector.

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SING THE DARKNESS INTO LIGHT Unveiling the songs and stories behind Hanukkah.

THE MACCABEES: FROM ANCIENT STRUGGLE TO MODERN SYMBOL The symbolism of the Maccabees remains relevant as Israel navigates the complexities of the 21st century.

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THE GIFT OF NOTHING What would it be like to give someone the gift that cannot be measured in dollars and cents?

16 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.’S UNWAVERING BOND WITH THE JEWISH COMMUNITY The Jewish and Black communities in the United States share a resilient history of solidarity and a rich relationship, marked by ups and downs over the centuries, periods of connection and harmony as well as periods of distrust and fracture.

18 LET THERE BE LIGHT Celebrating Winter Lights as an antidote to darker days.

28 REWIND From the archives

WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 3

celebrations evan j. schapiro

Global Celebrations of Hanukkah: A Cultural Tapestry of Light Hanukkah, the eight-day Jewish festival of lights, is celebrated with diverse customs and traditions around the world. While the core rituals of lighting the menorah, reciting blessings, and enjoying fried foods remain constant, local cultures have infused Hanukkah with unique flavors and expressions.

ISRAEL: THE BIRTHPLACE OF HANUKKAH In Israel, where Hanukkah originated, the holiday holds special significance. Public menorah lightings illuminate city centers, transforming them into radiant showcases of Jewish heritage. The sufganiyah, a delectable jelly-filled doughnut, takes center stage as a beloved Hanukkah treat.

Schools often host festive parties, and traditional games like dreidel spinning add to the joyous atmosphere.

UNITED STATES: A GIFT-GIVING TWIST Influenced by the proximity to Christmas, Hanukkah in the United States has embraced gift-giving. Families exchange presents, adding a material element to the spiritual celebration.

Public menorah lightings are held in prominent locations.

RUSSIA: A REVIVAL OF TRADITIONS After decades of suppressed religious expression during Soviet rule, Hanukkah is experiencing a revival in Russia. Public menorah lightings and celebrations have gained momentum, allowing Jewish communities to openly embrace their faith and traditions.

INDIA: A FUSION OF CULTURES The Jewish community in India, particularly in cities like Mumbai and Kolkata, has developed unique Hanukkah traditions.

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Instead of candles, families illuminate oil lamps called “diyas,” honoring the significance of oil in the Hanukkah story. Local culinary traditions blend with Hanukkah observances, resulting in dishes like “aloo chop” (potato fritters).

MOROCCO: STORYTELLING AND SFENJ In Morocco, Hanukkah is celebrated with storytelling sessions.

Sfenj, a Moroccan-style doughnut, adds a sweet touch.

TURKEY: SEPHARDIC TRADITIONS In Istanbul, Hanukkah is celebrated with Ladino prayers and songs, preserving the language and traditions of Sephardic Jews.

AUSTRALIA: A SUMMER HANUKKAH Down under in Australia, it is summer. Families gather for barbecues and outdoor activities.

ARGENTINA: COMMUNITY AND EMPANADAS Argentine-Jewish cuisine, like empanadas filled with beef or chicken, is often incorporated into the Hanukkah meals.

finding our center Latke Memories

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By Glenna Lee

love this moment. Don’t get me wrong, winter is not my favorite season; any season where I can kayak is the one for me. But there’s a magic to this weather. Maybe it’s just because I’m a (day after) Christmas baby, born on December 26, but I always find the days leading up to the winter solstice to be filled with anticipation, celebration, and of course…

Hanukkah. A time for family and friends to gather and feel cozy. A reminder that even in dark times, we make our own light. I was asked to share my latke recipe with you, our community and family, and I’m really happy to tell you that this recipe, for me, is also a story that I’m honored to have the chance to share, a story of my mother-in-law, Nancy Lee. Grandma (the name I mostly call Nancy, because it connects

me to the feelings I felt toward my own grandmothers, whose names I can no longer call) is an excellent and meticulous cook and baker. While that’s great for you, dear reader (because I can assure you that this recipe will be perfect, scrumptious, and indicate to all the loved ones with whom you share your latkes that they have been prepared by you with love), for me, there’s something more: This recipe is filled with generosity.

I am told by other women that they would never share their recipes with their daughters, because they don’t want anyone to duplicate what they can still offer with love to their family. But my mother-in-law has always shared her recipes with me, from the beginning.

When I was recently married, she came to our apartment and

See the next page for Grandma’s Latke recipe

WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 5

finding our center glenna lee spent a Friday afternoon teaching me how to make a delicious Shabbat dinner. And when our oldest daughter was a baby, she spent many an afternoon with us, bringing kosher meat and vegetables, teaching me how to make recipes like veal chops and short ribs. Our apartment never smelled so good. Maybe this is why our teenager loves food, because her earliest bites were made with love and skill by Grandma.

Hanukkah with the Lee Family feels like a PJ Library storybook.

Filled not only with candlelight but music: Grandma and Saba have a collection of Hanukkah songs and each night, after they light their menorahs, we sing. Moments filled with joy for sure.

Wishing you and yours a joyful celebration filled with light amongst the winter darkness. May your latkes be crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and filled, always, with love.

Grandma’s Latkes Makes 10-15 three-inch diameter latkes. Multiply ingredients for large servings (they freeze well!)

INGREDIENTS ❏ 2 large potatoes (Idaho or Russet) ❏ Small onion ❏ 1/4 cup matzo meal ❏ 1 egg ❏ 1 tsp salt ❏ Oil for frying (I use canola)

PREP ❏ Put oil in largest frying pans, 1/4-1/2” deep, do not turn heat on yet ❏ Large plate (to hold finished latkes) ❏ P aper towels (to blot oil off of ready latkes) ❏ Spatula ❏ Food processor with metal mixing blade ❏ Mixing bowl

DIRECTIONS 1. In a mixing bowl, lightly beat egg, add matzo meal, salt and mix to blend.

2. Peel onion, cut into 2” to 3” chunks.

3. Chop onions in food processor until pureed.

4. Add onions to mixing bowl, stir.

5. Heat pans to medium high.

6. Peel potatoes, cut into several pieces and food process until mushy.

7. Immediately blend the potatoes into the onion-egg mixture.

8. Carefully splash a drop of water into the hot pan; if it sizzles, then oil is ready to fry latkes!

9. Take a tablespoon of batter and place in fry pan, flattening the latkes a little so they will cook through easily.

10. When edges begin to brown, lift the latke to see if the underside is brown—if yes, then flip latke.

11. Repeat flipping until the latke is brown and crispy on both sides.

If eating immediately: Remove latkes from pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the process until all the batter is fried up!

If freezing them for later: Cool before freezing; when ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees on baking sheets for 10 minutes Serve with Glenna’s homemade applesauce (see recipe in the sidebar) and sour cream!

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Homemade Applesauce 1.

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Fill a pan with 1/4” of water.

Sprinkle cinnamon (1 tsp/to taste).

Pour in 1 tsp vanilla.

Add 1/3-1/2 cup of maple syrup (to taste).

Add cut up pieces of 6 apples; no need to peel. Macintoshes are great, but any apple will work. Optional: Add 1/3-1/2 cup raisins.

Simmer on medium high heat until the apples are very soft.

Use an immersion blender or enjoy chunky.

GLENNA LEE loves being in the kitchen, particularly alongside her daughters who cook much better than she does. Glenna is proud to have been raised at WJC and serve as the President of the WJC Sisterhood alongside women she has admired throughout her life.

finding our center

HOW IS ATTENDING MINYAN MEANINGFUL TO YOU? Louise Cohen inquires about congregants’ connection to minyan.

Elliot & Joan Forchheimer

Jonathan Lee

Linda Schwartzreich

It really surprised us to learn that it was often impossible to make a minyan on Sunday nights. While we are regular attendees at Shabbat services, we appreciate the need for people to join together for daily minyan and community support. So, with great enthusiasm, we decided to help make Sunday night minyan an irresistible way to end the week. At our weekly “Ice Cream Sundae” minyan, we serve ice cream for all and provide accompanying snacks. It has turned out to be a delicious way to end the week as sweetly as can be. Join us!

I’m so grateful for our country’s freedom of religion and that I can attend minyan every day to enrich my spirituality. Simply being in the chapel, reciting prayers, and bonding with fellow congregants sets a positive tone for my day. It feels good to be needed and it feels equally good to know that people will be there when I am in need. Minyan also connects me to traditions by allowing me to carry forward the practices of past generations.

At first, attending minyan was another way for me to participate at WJC and help mourners recite Kaddish. But it has become an integral part of my life. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel wrote, “Some of our deepest insights, decisions and attitudes are born in moments of prayer. Often where reflection fails, prayer succeeds.”

This has become so true for me! The icing on the cake is the post-minyan schmoozing and learning with such nice people.

Blast from the Past On December 3, 1959, some of our littlest members dressed as dreidels at a nursery cradle roll Hanukkah party at our original Hebrew Institute. The cradle roll, mostly run by Marly Koslowe, was a popular series of event for tots in the past.

Curious about dreidels? One of our youngest contributors, Micah Blachman, explores the history and lore behind dreidels on page 10.

—Jill Caslin and Katie Schlientz

WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 7

Rabbi in training kate schlientz

For the Love of Torah Claire Shoyer’s journey from dressing up as the Torah in fifth grade to serving as WJC’s rabbinical intern.

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laire Shoyer, a fourth-year student at the Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS), was drawn to Rabbi Arnowitz’s description of Westchester Jewish Center as a place that cultivated a personal experience for everyone in the congregation. Now, after serving as WJC’s intern for several weeks, Shoyer can be found trying to fulfill that mission: immersing herself in Shabbat, speaking on the bimah, and teaching in the religious school.

Kate Schlientz, WJC’s Editorial Services Director, sat down with Shoyer to learn more about her journey to becoming a “matchmaker to the meaning of Torah.”

KATE SCHLIENTZ: Was there a moment you realized you wanted to be a rabbi?

CLAIRE SHOYER: I don’t know why it took me so long; I was halfway through college and I had been around rabbis and female rabbis my whole life. But I was sitting at a bar mitzvah service and it just occurred to me—I could do this as a job. And the moment I made that realization, everything else fell into place. It was so clear—I was always active in my synagogue, I was a Torah reader, 8 • WJC Voices | Winter 2023

and I enjoyed services at school… I even dressed up as the Torah in fifth grade. But it took me being in services one day to make the realization.

KS: Was there something particular about that service that made you have this ‘aha’ moment?

CS: I just had a moment where I knew I would love working with people to make a service that felt meaningful.

KS: Do you think your communication studies at Penn helped you with that discovery?

CS: Absolutely. I studied communications, but I also was a public speaking tutor. The communications program was very theoretical, so I learned about why and how people communicate, and what they do consciously and subconsciously. It made me aware of the fact that other people communicate differently than I do and are motivated by different things. In this work, that helps me talk to people one on one and also helps me address various groups.

rabbi in training

KS: How would you describe your Jewish practice?

CS: Kinetic and connected. I feel most spiritual when I feel ‘in’ my body. That may be through a water ritual or movement in prayer.

Focusing on movement helps get me out of my head and allows me to connect with the experience. I also feel most spiritual when I’m in a shared experience. I’ve had some of my most spiritual experiences at secular concerts.

KS: Do you have a favorite Jewish holiday?

CS: Sukkot is my favorite holiday. On the surface, I love the fall. I love being outside.

I love the fall aesthetic. On a deeper level, I like the physicality of building the sukkah and of holding the lulav, smelling the etrog. My dad and I always built our Sukkah together, so I enjoyed that. It takes a private ritual and makes it public, inviting non-Jewish passerbys to ask questions.

KS: You are in your fourth year at JTS. How did you end up at WJC? CS: All of the fourth-year JTS students have careerfocused internships this year. I was reading through the synagogue descriptions and what Rabbi Arnowitz wrote was really compelling. It seemed like WJC is a place that has something for everyone, with a lot of resources enabling them to serve the entire community. It felt like it would be a good learning experience to observe two rabbis and a full-time cantor, as well as minyan every morning. It also felt like a place where people really care about the community, where congregants devote their time and energy, and are really involved.

KS: Do you see yourself leading a congregation from the bimah?

CS: Yes. That’s what gets me excited. I also love the process of writing d’var Torah and sermons. At this point in my studies, I really like text; there’s a lot of room for creativity and so much material to draw from. I also want to grow with families, helping individuals navigate from one life cycle to another and getting to know the different generations.

KS: You mentioned you loved the text of the Torah. Is there something specific about the text that draws you in?

CS: The Torah is a crazy book because it’s full of stories and laws, and we’re supposed to read about these people and their experiences—which are so far from how we experience God and how we experience life. But it’s not as different as it seems. That’s partly intentional.We seek to relate to Torah characters, despite living in vastly different circumstances. I know of no other genre of literature that inspires us to try and connect like this.

KS: Do you have other areas of interest within Judaism?

CS: I am really interested in movement and embodied Jewish practice. The two places this comes up are mikvah (ritual immersion) and shechita (ritual slaughter).

I’m currently receiving training in both. I am drawn to the mikvah because I believe that physically removing barriers and immersing oneself in water is a powerful and centering experience that can support emotional transformation.

I also admire Jewish communities that are self-sufficient and practice essential rituals, such as shechita and kosher meat production.

KS: What are your thoughts on the role of the rabbi in the 21st century?

CS: There is a growing movement for communities to operate without rabbis. But, for me, the role of the rabbi is committing to learning, tradition, the community, and offering context. I need to have this background and knowledge to know how to find answers. It’s my job to help match people with the meaning that they’re looking for.

KS: Thank you. This was fun. I wish you the best of luck with your studies and future graduation in May 2025!

CS: Thank you!

Katie Schlientz has served as WJC’s Editorial Services Director for over 5 years. She runs a marketing agency, popular local food blog, and freelances for Westchester Magazine.

WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 9

NEWS YOU CAN USE Micah Blachman

Nes Gadol Haya — SHAM! Unveiling the secrets of the dreidel: myths, history, and an interview with an avid collector.

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rehen, German for “to turn,” is said to be related to the origin of the word dreidel, and it’s a cognate of the English word throw. To that end, I’m about to throw your dreidel knowledge for a loop by debunking three dreidel-related myths.

First: that the dreidel is as old as the miracle of Hanukkah. According to The Forward, “Although its exact origins are lost to history, a top that would later evolve into the dreidel was brought from Ireland (or perhaps England) to Germany during the late Roman period.” This was hundreds of years after the Hanukkah miracle. Men back then would gamble using a top they called a “teetotum.”

According to the Library of Congress blog, the Hebrew word for dreidel, sevivon, wasn’t coined until the 19th century. There was “no known Semitic word for a dreidel until then,” folklorist Stephen Winick writes. “If the dreidel had been brought with Jews from ancient Judea into the diaspora, we would expect a Hebrew or Aramaic name to have come with it, and to predate the Yiddish one.”

A dreidel needlepointed by one of Debra’s friends.

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So the dreidel is simply not as old as we think.

Second: that the letters on the dreidel — nun, gimel, hey, and shin — stand for nes gadol haya sham (a great miracle happened here). According to Winick, the nes gadol haya sham explanation is “plausible — but it never occurred to me that if the designer of the dreidel already knew about the miracle, the dreidel couldn’t have been in use before it happened, when the Jews were still being oppressed by the Seleucid [a Greek Empire in western Asia from 30563 BCE, before it was annexed by Rome] rulers!”

If you were to go into the etymology of the word teetotum—the dreidel precursor from England—you would find the reasoning behind the four letters on the top. Totum, the T, means “the whole” in Latin. Auferre, the A, in Latin means “take away.” The D stands for deponere, in Latin also meaning “take away,” and the N, standing for nihil, translates to “nothing.”

In The Forward, Jordan Kutzik writes, “In Germany the teetotum evolved into the ‘trendel,’ and soon featured the German letters which corresponded to the game’s rules. When the Jews adopted the trendel they transliterated the letters into the Hebrew alphabet to represent Yiddish words: shin, for shtel arayn (put in); nun, for nit (not, i.e., nothing); gimmel, for gants (whole, i.e. everything); and hey, for halb (half). The letters were simply a mnemonic device to help players remember the rules.”

The word dreidel itself continued to evolve. The root was from the ProtoGermanic *þrēaną, meaning “turn” or “spin.” This became “drehen” (turn) in modern German, and the “trendel” became the “dreidel.”

Third: that the Jews used the dreidel to

One of Debra’s beautiful dreidels.

conceal that they were studying Torah.

Many believe the myth that when the Romans would not let the Jews practice their religion, they would study the Torah and then put away their books when the Roman soldiers came and replace them with dreidels.

Steven Winick’s article presents proof why the myth of the use of dreidels as a method of concealing Torah study could not possibly be accurate. “The main reason is that there’s absolutely no evidence of dreidels,” he writes, “either as physical objects or as references in Jewish writings, until the 18th century. It’s very unlikely that a game which relies on a durable physical object—a top with specific Hebrew letters on it—could have been popular over almost two thousand years without a single such object surviving.”

Indeed, there are no dreidels that old, though that doesn’t mean collectors haven’t done their best to try and find one. I spoke to Debra Bogaards, a San Francisco trial attorney with a dreidel collection of over 150. She began her collection when her

NEWS YOU CAN USE

daughter was in kindergarten and she wanted to share some Jewish traditions with the class. Along with latkes and homemade applesauce, she thought she’d bring some dreidels, too. And her collection began.

From there, it grew. “My husband, my law partner, and my friends started to gift me dreidels for my birthday and other occasions,” she told me, “and I started to collect them wherever I traveled. For example, when my husband and I went to Chicago and our plane was delayed by three hours, we took a taxi into downtown Chicago to the Jewish Museum, and I bought five more dreidels. When guests from the Netherlands came to visit me they looked far and wide in San Francisco to buy me a dreidel. Sometimes they are not that easy to find, but they stumbled upon the JCC gift shop and bought me an olive wood dreidel.”

When I asked Debra what her favorite dreidel is, she responded, “A mistake dreidel. I got it as a gift, and it probably came from a garage sale. It is made of glass

and has on it four letters: a chet, a shin, a chet, and a shin.”

Asked if any of her dreidels have sentimental value, she answered, “When I went to New Jersey for my aunt’s funeral, my cousins gave me a Waterford crystal dreidel which belonged to my aunt Rose.

When I brought the dreidel in my suitcase to the airport, it set off all of the alarms, because it was apparently made of lead. I also love dreidels I get from Israel, because they say on them the letters nun, gimel, hey, and pey, which is very special.”

When I inquired which dreidel is her newest addition to her collection, she said, “When I visited my cousin Annika’s house in the Netherlands recently, she gave me a dreidel from Israel.”

After doing the research for this article, I’ve realized that the dreidel is an example of how widely myths can spread. But regardless of whether or not a legend is true, it can still be worth preserving. After all, Debra embraces the idea that playing dreidel could have been a way to hide Torah study from the Roman soldiers, and in this way, dreidels can be seen as symbols of hope. To that end, when she thinks of people playing dreidel, she sees hope and religious freedom for the Jewish people.

Especially on this Hanukkah, we can turn to dreidels to find our own hope.

Micah Blachman is a fifthgrader at the Leffell School.

Debra’s favorite dreidel, a “mistake dreidel.”

Menorah-mous The world’s largest menorah, located at Grand Army Plaza in Manhattan, stands at a towering 36 feet tall.

This steel and aluminum structure weighs in at an impressive 4,000 pounds. Each night of Hanukkah, the menorah’s candles are lit—with help from a a mechanical cherry picker­— during a grand ceremony attended by thousands of people from all over the world.

The menorah was designed by Israeli artist Yaacov Agam and was first lit in 1973. Since then, it has become a beloved landmark and a symbol of New York City’s diversity.

The menorah is a reminder of the resilience of the Jewish people and their unwavering faith.

A close second: Rabbi Shimon Hecht built a hanukkiah that still stands tall at a site also named Grand Army Plaza, this one in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. This one is officially 32 feet high. The Brooklyn hanukkiah now boasts a plaque that reads: “Largest Menorah in Brooklyn.”

—Katie Schlientz WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 11

music notes cantor ethan goldberg

Sing the Darkness into Light Unveiling the songs and stories behind Hanukkah.

I have a little lulav I made it out of four species And when it’s dry and ready I’ll wave it in several directions.

The tune for Ma’oz Tzur is generally agreed to be adapted from a secular German song and was popular among German Jews by 1450. This tune was also used by Martin Luther in his collection of chorales for his new church a generation later.

Notice the trajectory is not simply from Church to Synagogue, ever heard that song? Don’t worry, I made it up — but but from folk melody to both Church and Synagogue. Clearly it illustrates an important point. Despite Chanukah’s this melody has a special ability to extract profound religious relatively minor importance compared to holidays like sentiment from the listener, which is why Jews and Christians Sukkot, Shavuot, or even Tisha B’av, there exists a comparative both adapted this secular song for religious purposes. glut of music for Chanukah. What can account for this? Why do They even adapted the melody in service of the same theme. we sing so much on Chanukah?

Luther’s text includes the line “comforted by what God has done It’s more complex than you might think. In contemporary for us/and his sweet miracle” just as Ma’oz Tzur states: “And American Jewish life, the answer seems easy. Chanukah, of course, from the one remnant of the flasks a miracle was wrought for the occurs in the same season as Christmas, which is replete with roses.” Something about this melody enlightens the listener to an music. Radio stations loop Christmas music and every notable awareness of God’s miracles, and that’s why both Christians and American artist has recorded Christmas songs.

Jews use the melody to talk about them.

With all this singing around them, contemporary I think there are two lessons to be learned from Listen to some Jews feel compelled to muster up plausible all this. First, we should not shy away from of Cantor alternatives, so they answer back with practices or forms that seem “Christian” to us.

Goldberg’s favorite reworked Yiddish songs (O Chanukah, O Rather than seeing European Jewish culture Hanukkah songs.

Chanukah) or Israeli imports (Sevivon, Sov as merely an imitation of Christian culture, Sov Sov; Mi Yimalel). In terms of formal the case of Ma’oz Tzur should teach us that music, Jews look to George Frederic Handel’s there are times when both Christians and “other” oratorio, Judas Maccabaeus, as an Jews can imbue a neutral cultural production alternative to the oft-performed Messiah. with similar yet distinct meaning. If both a Then, of course, come those peculiar pieces of church and synagogue have, say, stained glass, Judeo-Americana, Tom Lehrer’s (I’m Spending) or Christian and Jewish illuminated manuscripts Hanukkah In Santa Monica and Adam Sandler’s The include similar symbolism, it can’t be assumed that Chanukah Song, both of which were written to answer Jews were merely mirroring their neighbors. Rather, the need for a musical nod to the holiday in popular music. both groups imbue neutral imagery or methods with their own As Sandler puts it, “when you’re the only kid in town without a intentions.

Christmas tree,” plausible alternatives are a must.

The same goes for winter holiday music. Jews don’t sing on Notice in my treatment thus far of the music of Chanukah, I Chanukah just to mirror their neighbors, but for deeper reasons. have left out perhaps the most notable Chanukah song, Ma’oz Both Jews and Christians are reacting to the darkness that early Tzur. While you hum the infamous melody in your head at winter brings. To cold and darkness both groups bring light and its mere mention, consider its distinctive tune. It is in a major song. We sing on Chanukah because the winter would be too tonality and feels ripe for a bright setting in a rich, square choral cold and dark without a joyous, music and light-filled holiday. texture: the epithet “funny, you don’t look (or sound) Jewish” can Chanukah more than fits the bill, recounting a time when B’nei be applied to it.

Yisrael was brought “Mei’afeyla l’orah” from darkness to light.

We typically think that square choral music is “not Jewish” and decide it is “church music” or “Christian” or “goyshe,” Cantor Ethan Goldberg has served WJC since 2014. even. But tracing the origins of the tune reveals an interesting He reminds you to freeze your Hannukah candles so journey relevant to our own understanding of religious-cultural they burn longer and drip less. appropriation.

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WJC FAmily Erica & Chloe Strongin

The Gift of Nothing What would it be like to give someone the gift that cannot be measured in dollars and cents?

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round this time every year, excitement grows as we anticipate the upcoming holiday of Hanukkah, which we celebrate to commemorate the victory of Judah and the Maccabees over King Antiochus. The story of Hanukkah is a tale that has been passed down through generations, celebrated by Jews around the world.

It is a joyous occasion that reminds us to cherish our freedom and appreciate the miracles that can occur even in our darkest moments.

As we eagerly await the arrival of the eight-day holiday, we immerse ourselves in various customs that add to the joy and excitement of the celebration. One of the ways we express our jubilation is by lighting candles on the Hanukiah, which twinkle brightly and fill us with warmth and hope. Another way is by indulging in the scrumptious latkes and sufganiyot cooked in olive oil. Their mouth-watering aroma permeates the air and tantalizes our taste buds. We also engage in the playful dreidel game, which brings laughter and merriment to our gatherings. Our senses are awakened as we count down the days for the festival to arrive, and we can imagine the twinkle of the flames coming from the candles sitting in our Hanukiahs, the smell of the latkes drifting in the air, and the sound of laughter from families gathered together to celebrate the Festival of Lights. And, of course, one cannot forget about exchanging gifts.

Gift-giving is often associated with receiving something that we desire. It could be a material object that we can see, touch, and use, or it could be an experience that we cherish, such as attending a Broadway show, dining at a

fancy restaurant, or traveling to a new destination. The commonality among all these gifts is that they have a certain monetary value attached to them, which makes them tangible and measurable.

But—have you ever thought about gifting

nothing? While it may sound strange, it’s not impossible. What would it be like to give someone the gift of nothing? Would it still have value, even if it cannot be measured in dollars and cents?

The children’s book The Gift of Nothing, written and illustrated by Patrick McDonnell, explores this concept. The story follows the characters of Mooch, a cat, and Earl, a dog, who are best friends.

Mooch wants to get Earl the perfect gift, but can’t decide what that is, since Earl already has many things. Mooch asks himself, what do you get someone who already has everything? After searching all over for the perfect gift, he finally finds it. A very proud Mooch wraps the perfect gift in a large box with a big beautiful bow and presents the gift to Earl, who is very excited to open it. However, Earl quickly becomes perplexed because what he finds inside the box is nothing. The box is

empty.

When the two of us first read this book together several years ago, it was at this point in the story that we paused before turning the page. We asked each other, “If Mooch gave Earl a gift, why is the box empty? What is the gift?”

Together we thought of different gifts that people give each other that aren’t something one can physically touch. What is a gift that may not have a physical form, but has the power to make a lasting impact nonetheless?

Could it be a moment of silence, a heartfelt gesture, or simply being there for someone when they need you the most? The possibilities are endless.

In addition to this, we explored other intangible gifts such as kindness, love, compassion, laughter, and peace — all capable of bringing warmth and joy to the recipient’s life. These gifts may not be tangible, but their impact is priceless, and one thing is certain — the gift of nothingness is immeasurable.

Erica Strongin has been a teacher at Westchester Day School for 10 years in addition to running Art with Erica, an afterschool art club.

Erica has been a member of WJC since 2011 and is currently a trustee. She enjoys working on projects with her daughter.

Chloe Strongin is an 11th grader at Edgemont Jr./Sr. High School. She enjoys writing for her school newspaper and doing art projects. Chloe has been going to WJC since she was 3.

WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 13

community Barbara Richter

For the Love of the Game

NWSL

WJC member Jessica Berman leads the National Women’s Soccer League to new heights.

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hile many sports fans can name the commissioners of the NBA (Adam Silver), NFL (Roger Goodell), and Major League Baseball (Rob Manfred), we believe one more name should be on the tip of everyone’s tongue: Jessica Berman, the commissioner of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and a proud WJC member. Perhaps right now among the few women who have reached sports management’s upper echelons, Berman is actively working to change that while also growing a sport that is beloved by women and girls worldwide.

A veteran sports executive, Berman’s career includes thirteen years as vice president and deputy legal counsel for the National Hockey League before becoming deputy commissioner of the National Lacrosse League, a move that made her the first female commissioner of a male professional sports league. She then stepped into the role of commissioner of the NWSL in 2022.

“Working on behalf of, and in partnership with, our players is my number one priority,” Berman has said. “Having been involved in professional sports for many years, I know how critically important a genuine partnership with players is for us all to be successful and continue to grow.”

Berman’s love of athletics goes back to her childhood in Brooklyn, where, perhaps surprisingly, she did not participate in traditional team sports like soccer or basketball. Berman instead 14 • WJC Voices | Winter 2023

gravitated towards dance, which she practiced throughout her childhood.

While attending a New York Islanders hockey game with her parents, Berman discovered her interest in sports management.

As she explained in an interview with her alma mater, Fordham Law, Berman observed a pair of spectators who erupted into cheers and high-fives after an Islanders goal. She was surprised to learn that the fans were total strangers to one another. Their shared love of the Islanders broke down any barriers between them. That realization spurred Berman’s career trajectory of building and sustaining communities around sports.

Family and faith serve as Berman’s twin lodestars. Growing up in a conservative Jewish home in Brooklyn and attending a Jewish day school established a concrete foundation of identity and belief for her. When offered the position of deputy commissioner of the National Lacrosse League, Berman consulted her family first, asking her two sons how they felt about the potential sacrifices this new position would mean. Her older son said that she was a pioneer and told her she could not pass up the opportunity.

In 2013, sports supplied the support Berman needed when her then husband, Brad, suffered an unexpected stroke while preparing for a marathon training session. During Brad’s convalescence and recovery, Berman launched an initiative that raised over $650,000 for Burke Rehabilitation Center to purchase

community

© AMBER SEARLS-USA TODAY SPORTS

Commissioner Berman awards Portland Thorns FC forward Sophia Smith the 2023 NWSL Championship Match MVP award after Portland’s win over the Kansas City Current in the 2023 NWSL Championship.

© JESSICA RAPFOGEL-USA TODAY SPORTS

an exoskeleton, a wearable device that helps stroke patients regain mobility. Burke acquired two of these machines thanks to Berman’s fundraising efforts, and the machines have helped hundreds of patients in the intervening years. Brad’s recovery was so remarkable that he returned to work by 2015.

Berman says that her upbringing helped give her a lifelong

Commissioner Berman joins OL Reign captain Lauren Barnes and Racing Louisville FC captain Jaelin Howell to celebrate the league’s 1,000th game during a pregame ceremony on April 29, 2023.

love of sports and sense of place within the Jewish community, particularly when it comes to empowering others and ensuring everyone has an opportunity to play.

Few Jewish athletes, male or female, make it to the elite level, but those who do have the potential to achieve mythic status (See: Sandy Koufax, Sue Bird). Two NWSL general managers (Yael Averbuch West of NY/NJ Gotham FC and Camille Ashton of the Kansas City Current) are Jewish, and, like Berman, have made it their mission to nurture the next generation of players and executives. For example, former soccer phenom-turned-GM Averbuch West is a passionate advocate for women in soccer and Jewish girls in sports.

A hurdle to girls and women achieving equality on the playing field is overcoming the historical underfunding and devaluation of women’s sports, which, Berman claims, prevents women athletes from reaching their full potential. As commissioner of NWSL, she has advocated for pay parity and greater media coverage of women’s soccer. Her tenacity is paying dividends: media coverage is up, game attendance is skyrocketing, and players like Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan are household names. Additionally, the UJA Federation in New York recognized Berman for her work in May 2023 as its David J. Stern Leadership Award recipient, named for the former NBA commissioner.

A Larchmont resident, Berman has been a member of WJC for nearly a decade and had hoped to celebrate the bar mitzvah of her older son in Israel, but the pandemic changed those plans. Her younger son will become a bar mitzvah in December 2023.

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JEWISH HISTORY rabbi cornelia dalton

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Unwavering Bond with the Jewish Community The Jewish and Black communities in the United States share a resilient history of solidarity and a rich relationship, marked by ups and downs over the centuries, periods of connection and harmony as well as periods of distrust and fracture.

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any of us are familiar with what is often called the “Golden Period” of the 1950s and 1960s, when Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel z”l marched with Martin Luther King, Jr., and Rabbi Joachim Prinz z”l spoke at the March on Washington just before King’s famous “I Have A Dream” speech. The successful collaboration, support, and work of the Golden Period was based on a foundation of shared values and common ground between the two communities.

This foundation began in the 18th and 19th centuries and was strengthened in the early 20th century, as both African Americans and Jews had experienced centuries of discrimination, oppression, and prejudice. It came to a head in the 1930s, with the rise of Nazism abroad and increased anti-Semitism in the United States. The two communities found allies in each other, fighting legal discrimination together.

Martin Luther King, Jr., recognized these

parallels and saw an opportunity to build bridges between these two communities in another fraught moment in our nation’s history. While he is best known for his leadership in the African American civil

A WJC ADULT EDUCATION CONVERSATION SERIES WITH RABBI JEFFREY ARNOWITZ AND FRIENDS

You’re invited to join Rabbi Arnowitz for a series of intimate and profound conversations. These wide-ranging discussions with special guests promise to illuminate our minds and inspire thought-provoking insights.

Join us Wednesday, February 7, for Building Bridges.

Rev. Dr. Antipas Harris, a longtime friend and interfaith partner of Rabbi Arnowitz, runs the Urban Renewal Center of Norfolk, VA. Antipas will join Rabbi Arnowitz for a conversation about race, faith, and his work to build bridges and help communities.

In this conversation, we will explore some of the work RJA and Antipas did in Norfolk and what we can learn from that about the current state of Jewish-Black relations, interfaith 16 • WJC Voices | Winter 2023

rights movement, King’s relationship with the Jewish community played a significant and often overlooked role in his activism.

King’s messages of nonviolent resistance and love as a driving force for change resonated deeply with the Jewish community. Jews, having faced persecution and genocide throughout history, could identify with the Black community’s struggle for justice and equality. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, a prominent Jewish theologian and civil rights activist, emphasized the common ground between the two communities, stating, “When I marched in Selma, my feet were praying.”

He also said, “Our legs understood that we were on the march for freedom, that our soles were on the soul of the people.”

King, along with John Lewis, also worked with Jewish leaders like Rabbi Joachim Prinz, a prominent GermanAmerican rabbi, standing together in the fight for civil rights. Their shared values formed a strong foundation for their

community work in general, and where we go from here. Rev. Dr. Antipas Harris is a prominent figure in the Norfolk community, recognized for his work in promoting interfaith relations and building bridges between communities. The conversation between Harris and Arnowitz will provide a valuable opportunity to reflect on the challenges and opportunities facing interfaith community work today.

JEWISH HISTORY

collaboration.

The Jewish community played a crucial role in supporting the civil rights movement, both financially and morally.

Jewish philanthropists and activists provided funding for the movement, enabling King and his followers to organize protests, rallies, and other initiatives. This financial support was instrumental in sustaining the movement during its most challenging moments.

Jews were also active participants in the struggle for civil rights. Many Jewish individuals, including rabbis and community leaders, marched alongside King and faced risks and dangers. This shared commitment to justice and equality forged deep bonds between the African American and Jewish communities in the mid-twentieth century.

While the relationship between Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Jewish community was generally positive, it was not without challenges and controversies.

One such issue was King’s association with figures who held anti-Semitic views. Some of his close associates, such as Malcolm X, were known to make anti-Semitic statements.

King’s association with individuals who expressed anti-Semitic sentiments created tension within the Jewish community. Some Jewish leaders and organizations questioned whether King was doing enough to distance himself from these views. However, King consistently emphasized his commitment to nonviolence and inclusivity, which helped assuage concerns within the Jewish community.

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy continues to influence the relationship between African Americans and the Jewish community. His message of unity,

love, and nonviolence remains a source of inspiration for both communities as they confront contemporary challenges related to racism, discrimination, and social justice.

After King’s death, and as civil society changed and the civil rights community evolved in the 1970s, ‘80s, and ‘90s, the relationship between Jewish and black communities endured periods of strain and distance. Some argue that this was caused by increased perception of and acceptance of Jews as white, while others argue that this was caused by increased political divisiveness and inflammatory rhetoric.

King’s legacy has contributed to a broader understanding of the importance of interfaith cooperation and solidarity.

His ability to bridge divides and find common ground serves as a model for building alliances between different communities to advocate for social change. This powerful connection between Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Jewish community reminds us of the enduring strength of solidarity in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.

In a special class on January 7, at WJC we’ll examine the enduring connection between Jews and Black Americans, delving into the rich historical alliance of the Golden Period, and discovering what lessons we can learn from its leaders and carry forward into today.

Rabbi Cornelia Dalton joined WJC as the Assistant Rabbi in 2020. A Westchester native, she received a B.A. in French and Francophone Studies and Russian Area Studies from Bryn Mawr College in 2011 and ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary in May 2020.

Experience History WJC invites you on an extraordinary educational experience in Atlanta. Join us Sunday through Wednesday, April 7-10, 2024, for interactive Civil Rights and Human Rights programs led by Journeys2Change Executive Director Abbe Marcus and our own Rabbi Arnowitz.

Highlights include visits to the EJI Museum and Memorial created

by Bryan Stevenson and the Equal Justice Initiative; day trips to Selma, Birmingham, and Atlanta; tours of the 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park; service and dinner at Temple Mishkan in Selma; and more!* To learn more and sign up, visit wjcenter.org.

THE DETAILS $1,872 double occupancy $2,172 single occupancy INCLUDES •R ound-trip airfare from NY to Atlanta • 3 nights accommodation (downtown Montgomery) •T ransportation by coach bus •A ll museum admissions and guides •M ost meals $100 early bird discount if you register before December 31, 2023. A $350 deposit ($50 non-refundable) will be collected to secure your spot. Full payment will be due on March 8, 2024. *Itinerary subject to change.

WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 17

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Celebrating Winter Lights as an Antidote to Darker Days

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inter, with its shorter days and prolonged darkness, has long cast a shadow on the human psyche, giving rise to a variety of emotional challenges including seasonal depression and loneliness. Commonly referred to as the “winter blues,” these cold and dark months can take a toll on our mental health, bringing forth a range of emotional challenges. This can be amplified in harder times, like the ones faced by the Jewish community right now in the wake of the events of October 7th. To cope with the darkness of winter, a number of cultures have established winter lights festivals — such as Hanukkah and Christmas — to brighten spirits and counteract the gloominess that often accompanies this season.

The tradition of celebrating light during the darkest days of winter can be traced back to ancient civilizations. Dr. Emma Adams, a cultural historian, explains, “Early cultures marked the winter solstice as a turning point, signifying the rebirth of light and the promise of warmer days ahead. Rituals involving fire and light were thought to encourage the return of the sun’s life-giving rays.”

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Strategies for Nurturing Your Mental Health LIGHT THERAPY: Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a common treatment for SAD. It involves exposure to a bright light that mimics natural sunlight. This can help regulate your body’s internal clock and improve mood. Light therapy boxes are available for home use.

EXERCISE: Physical activity can have a profound impact on mental health.

Even a short daily walk can help improve mood and reduce stress.

Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.

HEALTHY EATING: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can positively influence your mental health. Foods high in sugar and processed carbohydrates may lead to mood swings and energy crashes.

MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION: Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help manage stress and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

These techniques promote relaxation and self-awareness.

STAY CONNECTED: Maintain social connections through virtual or inperson interactions. Sharing your feelings with trusted friends and family can provide emotional support.

SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP: If you’re struggling with depression or anxiety, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

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We can find evidence in our tradition as well. Most famously, in the Talmud (Avodah Zarah 8a) we read: With regard to the dates of these festivals, the Sages taught: When Adam the first man saw that the day was progressively diminishing, as the days become shorter from the autumnal equinox until the winter solstice, he did not yet know that this is a normal phenomenon, and therefore he said: Woe is me; perhaps because I sinned the world is becoming dark around me and will ultimately return to the primordial state of chaos and disorder. And this is the death that was sentenced upon me from Heaven, as it is written: “And to dust shall you return” (Genesis 3:19). He arose and spent eight days in fasting and in prayer.

Once he saw that the season of Tevet, i.e., the winter solstice, had arrived, and saw that the day was progressively lengthening after the solstice, he said: Clearly, the days become shorter and then longer, and this is the order of the world. He went and observed a festival for eight days. Upon the next year, he observed both these eight days on which he had fasted on the previous year, and these eight days of his celebration, as days of festivities. He, Adam, established these festivals for the sake of Heaven, but they, the gentiles of later generations, established them for the sake of idol worship. [Sefaria.org translation] This Talmudic midrash is not usually associated with Hanukkah. Yet it seems more than a coincidence that our contemporary Festival of Lights is eight days long, just like the festival celebrated by our primordial ancestor. Note that the phenomenon goes back to the first human being, so it makes sense that the idea of a winter lights festival would be shared in one way or another by nearly every culture.

The author of this midrash seems keenly aware of the universal human condition of the winter blues.

Examples abound: the rabbis of ancient Babylonia report that because of “danger,” they could not light their hanukiyot in the window, despite the mitzvah to “publicize the miracle.” What was the danger? At that same time of year, the Zoroastrians (the predominant religion in ancient Babylonia) also had a light festival. It was their custom, as Rashi explains, to bring any burning flame to their Temple in Babylon. Can you imagine lighting your hanukiyah only to have your door kicked in by an ancient Zoroastrian priest who would carry it, still lit, to his temple?

For a more contemporary example we can look at the Yule log. The Yule log, a central element of pre-Christian winter festivals, symbolized the sun’s revival and was a precursor to modern holiday traditions. In fact, the timing of Christmas reflects the ancient Roman holiday known as Saturnalia. Saturnalia was a sevenday (or eight-day) festival that started with the Winter Solstice and ended one week later. This can be seen as parallel to Adam’s second festival, celebrating as he sees the days growing longer. It also — no coincidence — matches up well with the holidays of Christmas and New Year’s Day. As professor Mark Thompson, an anthropologist, says, “The incorporation of light into religious festivals like Christmas and Hanukkah mirrored the symbolic transition from darkness to light, capturing the profound desire for hope and renewal during the coldest months.”

Psychological studies consistently highlight the positive impact of light on human well-being. The cold and dark winter months often bring forth a surge in mental health issues, with loneliness taking center stage among the challenges faced by many. As the days grow shorter and outdoor activities diminish, individuals find themselves more isolated, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. The reduced exposure to natural light can disrupt circadian rhythms and exacerbate conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), amplifying the struggle. According to Dr. Samuel Glazer, “People have the notion that everyone else

is living in a Christmas Holiday Movie while they are re-experiencing grief, loneliness or memories of dysfunctional family times — this can trigger depressive symptoms.”

The symptoms of SAD are similar to those of major depression and can include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns.

These symptoms have become more widely observed since the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a profound impact on mental health in the United States, not to mention the world. The prolonged uncertainty, fear, and social isolation brought about by the pandemic exacerbated existing mental health conditions and triggered new ones.

But the winter lights can be a treatment.

In addition to individual psychological benefits, winter lights festivals foster a sense of community and togetherness.

These festivities act as communal events that unite individuals, addressing the feeling of isolation that frequently accompanies the winter season. The joint observance of light has the capacity to instill a sense of belonging and fellowship among those involved.

Hanukkah holds significant meaning in the context of winter lights festivals. Dr. David Cohen, an expert in Jewish history, explains, “Hanukkah commemorates the miraculous rekindling of the menorah in the Second Temple. This triumph of

light over darkness resonates deeply, symbolizing the perseverance of the Jewish people even in the face of adversity.”

Rabbi Arnowitz adds, “Throughout Jewish history we have had ample opportunity to recognize the importance of even small glimmers of light during times of actual, or metaphorical, darkness.

This was symbolized especially harshly on Simchat Torah during the gruesome attacks on civilians in Israel. It is remarkable how much more precious the light of a simcha like a bat mitzvah or baby naming has become since then. When it’s darker, a small light seems brighter and shines further.”

A WJC ADULT EDUCATION CONVERSATION SERIES WITH RABBI JEFFREY ARNOWITZ AND FRIENDS

You’re invited to join Rabbi Arnowitz for a series of intimate and profound conversations.

These wide-ranging discussions with special guests promise to illuminate our minds and inspire thought-provoking insights.

Join us Thursday, January 11, for The Mental Health Crisis... Worse Than You Think.

When titans of finance get addicted to drugs and alcohol, they sometimes end up on the couch of Dr. Sam Glazer,” says the Wall Street Journal. Longtime WJC member and medical director of Fifth Avenue Psychiatry Dr. Samuel Glazer will join us to talk about seasonal depression and so much more on mental health and addiction. For more information on Dr. Glazer and his practice, please visit www.psychiatrynyc.com.

and winter; it is seasonal and often goes away when the days get longer. Telltale signs include feeling lonely and still wanting to isolate, not getting pleasure out of things that would normally bring you joy or comfort, having less energy, and wanting to sleep more. As far as food, many eat more while others experience insomnia and have no appetite. Remarkably, it is often difficult to see SAD in oneself.

RJA: Do you see an uptick in mental health issues in the winter?

SG: I definitely see an uptick in mental health issues in the winter. Many of my patients experience more symptoms of depression (and substance use) during the winter months. I also see a pattern where people are less likely to seek help during this time, especially in December.

RJA: What are some of the ways people can address SAD at home, or prevent it from developing in the first place?

SG: Knowing that SAD exists is a great place to start. Awareness and reducing the stigma of depression are keys to prevention and treatment. A light therapy lamp is fairly inexpensive and works well. The best medicine is family, community, and friends.

Go to your workplace in person and engage socially with others.

Psychotherapy can be very helpful as well as various prescribed medications. Additionally, exercise is great at preventing and treating depression, with many studies showing it is as effective as antidepressant medications.

RJA: What are some of the telltale signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SG: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is very similar to depression. What makes it SAD is that it presents in the late fall

WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 21

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THE MACCABEES: From Ancient Struggle to Modern Symbol The symbolism of the Maccabees remains relevant as Israel navigates the complexities of the 21st century

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merging from the depths of the 2nd century BCE, the Maccabees, a band of valiant Jewish warriors, etched their names indelibly onto the annals of Jewish history, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to resonate with the modern Zionist movement.

Far from mere historical figures, the Maccabees epitomized the unwavering spirit of Jewish identity and determination. Amidst a pivotal era, they rose to prominence as beacons of resistance, their struggles, triumphs, and ultimate impact forever shaping the trajectory of the Jewish people and culminating in the establishment of the State of Israel. But more fully understanding their story can shed new light on the current conflict and the post-October 7 landscape that is affecting all of us today.

Here’s what we grew up learning: Long, long ago in a place called Judea, there were brave warriors called the Maccabees. They loved their special temple in Jerusalem, but a big, powerful king wanted to change their temple and their traditions. The Maccabees said, ‘No!’ and decided to protect their temple. They fought against the king’s soldiers, even though they were tremendously outnumbered. With lots of determination and a little bit of magic, they won! And when they went back to their temple, they found only a tiny bit of special oil to light the lamp… but guess what? That tiny bit of oil burned for eight whole days! That’s why we celebrate Hanukkah, to remember the brave Maccabees and the miracle of the never-ending oil.

The Maccabean Revolt, a defining event in Jewish history, was not a straightforward rebellion against oppression but rather a complex struggle rooted in a confluence of religious, cultural, and political factors. Under the dominion of the Hellenistic Seleucid Empire, the Jewish heartland of Judea faced the imposition of Greek culture and religion. This imperial policy exacerbated tensions between the Hellenized Jewish elite, who embraced Greek customs and practices, and the traditionalist majority, who held fast to Jewish traditions. The desecration of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the subsequent prohibition of Jewish religious observance ignited the revolt, transforming it into a battle for the preservation of Jewish identity and selfdetermination.

The connection between the Maccabees’ struggle and modern Israel begins here. Just as the Maccabean revolt united Jews against a common external threat, contemporary Israel has faced internal divisions, particularly concerning religious, political, and territorial matters. These internal schisms sometimes lead to conflicts reminiscent of the divisions among Jews during the Maccabean era. Dr. Rebecca Cohen, a political scientist, 24 • WJC Voices | Winter 2023

delves into the complexities of the Maccabees’ connection to contemporary divisions within the Jewish community. She argues, “While the Maccabean revolt united Jews against external oppression, it’s essential to recognize that historical parallels can sometimes exaggerate unity. The internal divisions during the Maccabean era are echoed in present-day debates surrounding religion, politics, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.”

This acknowledgement of internal divisions is crucial when considering the Maccabees as a unifying symbol for the Jewish people.

Dr. Rachel Weitz, a historian specializing in ancient Jewish history, argues that the Maccabean revolt was not solely about religious freedom. It encompassed a profound and multifaceted struggle for Jewish cultural and political autonomy. Dr. Weitz asserts, “The Maccabees were driven by a deep-seated desire to safeguard their distinct Jewish identity against the encroachment of Hellenistic influences. Their fight encompassed not only the restoration of religious practices but also the preservation of Jewish customs and the governance of their own land.” In this light, the Maccabees emerge as complex figures fighting for more than just religious liberty; they were determined to protect the entirety of Jewish heritage, and not just from the Seleucid Greeks. Many historians see the Maccabean result as a Civil War as much as it was a battle between a World power and a small colonized nation.

In the book of I Maccabees, the Greeks are clearly not the only culprits: I Maccabees 1:14-17: 14) In those days went there out of Israel wicked men, who persuaded many, saying, 15) “Let us go and make a covenant with the heathen that are round about us: for since we departed from them we have had much sorrow.” 16) So this device pleased them well. Then certain of the people were so forward herein, that they went to the king, who gave them a license to do after the ordinances of the heathen, 17) whereupon they built a place of exercise at Jerusalem according to the customs of the heathen and made themselves uncircumcised, and forsook the holy covenant, and joined themselves to the heathen, and were sold to do mischief.

Furthermore, Mattathias’s first victims were not only Greeks: I Maccabees 2:23-27 23) (Mattathius says…) We will not hearken to the king’s words, to go from our religion, either on the right hand, or the left. 24) Now when he had left speaking these words, there came one of the

Jews in the sight of all to sacrifice on the altar which was at Modin, according to the king’s commandment. 25) Which thing when Mattathias saw, he was inflamed with zeal, and his reins trembled, neither could he forbear to shew his anger according to judgment: 26) wherefore he ran, and slew him upon the altar. Also the king’s commissioner, who compelled men to sacrifice, he killed at that time, and the altar he pulled down. 27) Thus dealt he zealously for the law of God like as Phinees did unto Zambri the son of Salom.

Yes, Mattathias slew the Greek officer, but first he killed the Jew who caved and bowed down to the wicked King Antiochus’s idol.

Clearly, the politics and combatants in this conflict are not as clear as they were told to us in our youth.

At the forefront of the Maccabean revolt were individuals who would become legendary in Jewish history, particularly Judah Maccabee and his brothers. Their leadership transformed what

could have been a localized conflict into a movement that resonated deeply with the broader Jewish population. The essence of their struggle was not merely a military campaign; it was a battle for the preservation of Jewish religious autonomy, cultural distinctiveness, and the sanctity of the Temple.

The Maccabean revolt served as a powerful symbol of Jewish resilience and resistance. Their unwavering commitment to preserving Jewish heritage and identity against overwhelming odds resonated deeply with Jews of that period and would echo through Jewish history. The parallels between the Maccabees’ struggle and the Zionist aspiration for a national homeland in Ottoman and British Mandate Palestine are evident. Just as the Maccabees fought to preserve Jewish identity in the face of external forces, Zionism sought to establish a sovereign nation where Jews could flourish. The Maccabees, with their unwavering determination, became a source of inspiration for early Zionist leaders who saw in their story a blueprint for modern Jewish self-determination.

The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 marked a watershed moment in Jewish history, fulfilling the Zionist dream of a homeland for the Jewish people. The Maccabees, as symbols of resistance and determination, were interwoven into the narrative of Israel’s founding. The lighting of the Hanukkah menorah, commemorating the Maccabees’ rededication of the Temple, became not only a religious ritual but also a national symbol of Israeli identity and pride. Historian and author Dr. Sarah Levy contends that the Maccabees’ defiance has resonated through the ages and has been a source of inspiration for the Zionist movement. She says, “The Maccabees embodied the idea that Jews, when faced with adversity, can overcome overwhelming odds and reclaim their identity. This ethos deeply influenced early Zionist leaders, who saw in the Maccabees’ struggle a blueprint for the revival of Jewish national pride and sovereignty.”

But the true story, as we see, is more complex. The concept of Jews turning on other Jews, often referred to as sinat chinam (baseless hatred), has historical roots here. While the Maccabees succeeded in reclaiming the Temple, their legacy reminds us that unity and mutual understanding are essential for the survival and prosperity of the Jewish people. Dr. Jacob Goldstein, a sociologist specializing in Jewish community dynamics, offers a nuanced perspective on divisions within the Jewish community. He states, “Unity cannot be taken for granted and requires continuous effort.”

Especially after the horrific events of October 7 and the subsequent spike in anti-Semitism and moral equivocation on WJC Voices | Winter 2023 • 25

The Maccabees embodied the idea that Jews, when faced with adversity, can overcome overwhelming odds and reclaim their identity. This ethos deeply influenced early Zionist leaders, who saw in the Maccabees’ struggle a blueprint for the revival of Jewish national pride and sovereignty.”

— Dr. Sarah Levy

both individual and international scales, the Jewish people in Israel and beyond seem as unified as ever. From Maccabean times until today, there has been a lot of division in Jewish communities both in Israel and in the Diaspora. But nothing seems to unite the Jewish people the world over like an existential threat or when the evil of anti-Semitism rears its ugly head on a large scale, as we are seeing today.

And yet — the Maccabees also provide a cautionary tale. After all, what exactly happened to the Maccabees, who became the Hasmonean royal dynasty? The Maccabean Revolt occurred from 167-160 BCE and the Hasmonean dynasty ended with the rulership of the Romans in 63 BCE. They ruled for only 100 years!

Worse than that, the Romans took over in a bloodless conquest: the Hasmoneans gave them the land. How did the mighty and proud Maccabees come to give away rulership of the Holy Land just 100 years after they wrested it back from the Seleucid Greeks?

It was infighting, of course. Two Hasmonean princes, John Hyrcanus II and Aristobulus II (note they adopted Hellenistic names despite their Maccabean heritage) were competing for the throne. The Roman general Pompey had conquered the Seleucid Greeks and the brothers each sent representatives to solicit an alliance with Pompey. Pompey sided with Hyrcanus, but after assisting him in defeating Aristobulus, he decided not to leave.

In other words, the Hasmonean rulers were such poor kings and

26 • WJC Voices | Winter 2023

were so divided among themselves that they invited the Roman occupation of Judea. Pompey’s troops never had to lift a sword.

It is remarkable that despite the popularity of Hanukkah both here in the US and in Israel, we only have the stories of the Maccabees because they were included in the Apocrypha section of the Christian Bible! If the failure of the Hasmonean kingdom isn’t a reminder that Jews need to remain unified even when we hold power, what is?

The Maccabees’ historical struggle was driven by a complex interplay of motivations, from the preservation of cultural and religious identity to the pursuit of political self-determination.

Their legacy has endured through time, inspiring the Zionist movement and finding profound expression in the establishment of the State of Israel. However, the parallels between their historical plight and contemporary divisions within the Jewish community highlight the ongoing need for dialogue, understanding, and unity. The Maccabees’ journey serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring spirit of a people who have faced adversity and emerged triumphant through the strength of their convictions. As the Hanukkah lights continue to illuminate our homes, they also illuminate the path toward a more united and harmonious future for the Jewish people.

Joel F. Levy D.D.S. LASER ASS I STE D

Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry

drjoelflevy@gmail.com www.21stcenturydentist.com 2039 Palmer Avenue, Suite 101 Larchmont, NY 10538 914-834-9534

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rewind from the archives Arnold Margolius lights candles next to Moe Krieger, our first principal who served from 1949 to 1951, while the shul was in our original Hebrew Institute days.

—Jill Caslin and Katie Schlientz

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