During 167 BCE, Judah Maccabee and his family (known as the Maccabees) resisted the oppression and Hellenistic practices led by King Antiochus. Antiochus repressed the Jewish religion fiercely by forbidding religious practices, building alters, and destroying the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The Maccabees revolted with force and retook the Temple. They rededicated the Temple with the lighting of a menorah (candelabra), whose light lasted for eight nights. The Jewish people were liberated, and the holiday of Hanukkah was established. Hanukkah, which translates to dedication in Hebrew, is celebrated as a commemoration of the Maccabees’ victory and the rededication of the Temple. 

Dedication, which is synonymous with commitment, is apparent during holiday celebrations at the Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center (JCC Denver), such as Latkes and Lights. The JCC Denver is creating an experience for the community that demonstrates Jewish joy and the miracle of Hanukkah. It’s the hottest (at least the oil is!) family-filled Hanukkah extravaganza in town, featuring a latke Denver restaurant and community competition, themed activity booths, a bounce house, and live music! This year Latkes and Lights will be on Sunday, December 7, and tickets go on sale on Friday, October 17. 

Commitment is showcased by ordinary people who have a deep passion or belief. For example, Israeli ultra-marathoner, Eli Hayut dedicated endless hours, blisters, and sweat to cross the finish line of the Arizona Monster Race this past spring. He set a record for the longest distance run by an Israeli – 304 miles in 6 days, 46 minutes, and 51 seconds. When he crossed the finish line, he held an Israeli flag and wore a t-shirt that referenced the hostages still in Gaza with the saying, “Bring Them Home Now.” Or take the ever-committed Albert Einstein – a Jewish physicist who dedicated his life to learning about the universe and authored Quantum Theory, the Theory of Relativity, and the Unified Theory. His commitment and creativity fundamentally impact how we understand space and time. Finally, the story of Judah Maccabee and his followers show that dedication to the Jewish faith can come in the form of steadfast belief. 

Ordinary people, like Eli Hayut, Albert Einstein, or Judah Maccabee transform into extraordinary people when they exhibit dedication to their dreams and beliefs. Devoted individuals come in the form of runners, scientists, and people like you. We embody the story of Hanukkah and the value of dedication every day through our generative commitment to ourselves and to the things we love most. What will you re-dedicate yourself to this season?