What it is about
The dreidel, a four-sided spinning top traditionally used during Hanukkah, is far from being a mere child’s plaything. This iconic toy carries with it a rich tapestry of Jewish history and deep symbolic significance, extending beyond its familiar role in holiday festivities.
Why it matters
Understanding the dreidel’s historical roots illuminates the Jewish resilience and unwavering dedication to faith amid adversity. It is more than a game—it embodies survival strategies, symbolic remembrance, and traditional continuity linking all Jews to their illustrious past.
The Connection to Jewish Tradition and Perseverance
The origin of the dreidel reaches back to the time of the Seleucid Greeks, infamous for their attempted suppression of Jewish study and practice. According to tradition, Jewish sages adopted the dreidel to covertly continue their Torah learning, camouflaging their scholarly endeavors as innocent play to fool oppressions. This strategic resistance ensured that Jewish teachings survived and thrived through hardship.
Reflection on Divine Intervention
Jewish rabbinical thought, including insights from Rabbi Tzvi Elimelech of Dinov, emphasizes that the act of spinning the dreidel reflects God’s provident care during Hanukkah. Through miraculous events and divine intervention, this symbol anchors Hanukkah in elements that are spiritually uplifting and historically profound for Jewish continuity.
A Testament to Jewish Resilience in Times of Adversity
The use of dreidels has persisted through severe trials, including clandestine celebrations in Nazi concentration camps. Whether sourced from tradition or more recent creativity, dreidels carved out of necessity epitomize Jewish resilience, hope, and the relentless determination to maintain religious and cultural identity.
The Lesson for All Ages
Beyond historical tradition, the dreidel today continues to transmit the virtues of faith, perseverance, and vibrancy in Jewish life to both children and adults. Every spin of the dreidel encourages us to keep turning amid life’s manifold challenges, never forgetting our past nor forsaking our strength.
As such, this modest spinning top is far more than an entertaining pastime; it is a resilient pillar of Jewish symbolic landscape, uniting the people’s history with their dynamic present.
This story was first published on jpost.com.