What it’s about:

A resilient community in Hertfordshire persevered with their Hanukkah celebrations despite an unfortunate incident of vandalism involving their Hanukkiah. The spirited event was a demonstration of unity and resistance against acts of hatred.

Why it matters:

This story highlights the enduring spirit and unity within the Jewish community, even in the face of adversity. It underscores the broader values of unity, resilience, and hope prevalent within Jewish culture and history, serving as a beacon of inspiration for communities facing similar challenges worldwide.

Details:

On Sunday evening, the Hertfordshire community, anchored by Chabad Lubavitch Bricket Wood, went ahead with their Hanukkah candle lighting celebration despite their Hanukkiah being vandalized just earlier in the day. The religious fixture was discovered by Rabbi Eliezer Tunk in a vandalized state, with its structure defaced with blue paint.

Rabbi Tunk expressed the community’s shock and sadness at the incident over social media, yet they chose not to let this dampen their spirits. Instead, they rallied together with even greater solidarity and numbers.

Community Response:

Proclaiming a victory over intolerance, Chabad Lubavitch Bricket Wood detailed the exceptional turnout of over 200 community members. This overwhelming show of support emphasized that no act of hatred could overshadow the faith and togetherness of the community. The message was clear: “Together, we continue to bring light into the world.”

The Larger Picture:

This example not only stretches from Hertfordshire but across international borders, providing a testament to the Jewish tradition’s focus on overcoming darkness through unity, exemplified during the celebration of Hanukkah effectively answering tribulations with resilience and community solidarity.

This story was first published on jpost.com.