As we come together to celebrate the holiday of Chanukah, we are once again assigning each night a Middah (Jewish value). These Middot are positive character traits that we hope to cultivate and live by on a daily basis.
Please use this guide as an opportunity to learn about nine different Middot. Our Shamash, the Middah of Emunah, will help us live out each of the different Middot that we are sharing each night.
Shamash Candle
The Middah of Emunah, Faith
We at B’nai Amoona are a Kehillah; a community of faith. Faith in ourselves, each other, and our Judaism. Our faith unites us. It brings us to Chanukah, the holiday of Dedication and Rededication. A time for us to shine a light on what is good in our world and what is in need of our help. It gives us an opportunity to stand together, like the mighty Maccabees, to fight against oppression. To have faith that we, as a Kehillah, can live our values and be a part of creating a better world.
Night One Candle The Middah of Nedivut, Generosity
Being generous is not only about money. You can be generous with your time and your willingness to share with others. Take the time to call a friend or a family member who you have not reached out to in awhile. Show them they matter to you by connecting with them. Go through your home and find items you no longer need (extra coat and gloves); however others greatly need. Package them up and deliver them to a shelter in the area.
Night Two Candle The Middah of Ahavah, Love
Demonstrating love towards others is one of the most important gifts we can give another. Write a letter or a postcard. Draw a picture. Send this gift of love to someone in an Assisted Living facility or in a hospital. Help them to feel your love.
Night Three Candle The Middah of Simchah, Happiness
Simchah means joy and happiness, which is a way of being in the world. Say hello to someone passing by on the street. Find ways to put a smile on someone else’s face. Share your warmth. Help someone giggle. Laugh. Support others in finding joy!
Night Four Candle The Middah of Lev, Courage
Ometz Lev is not only courage, it is also strength. It is finding within yourself the strength and courage to stand up for what is right. To use your voice for good. To speak up and speak out for others who need you to be their ally. You do not have to do this alone. Find others, and share your courage, and help change the world for the better.
Night Five Candle The Middah of Emet, Truthfulness
Being true to yourself is very important. Allow yourself to express your needs. Give yourself grace. Be comfortable saying “No” when necessary. Be honest with yourself and others.
Night Six Candle The Middah of Din, Justice
Acts of Justice are also acts of equity. Spend some time thinking and talking with others about areas where you may be carrying an unconscious bias. Research places in our community that support diversity, inclusion, and justice. Find out how you can support these organizations in promoting Justice.
Night Seven Candle The Middah of Anavah, Humility
A few acts of humility are noticing others and letting them know you see them and all their special qualities. Recognizing in yourself what you have yet to learn and seek out others who can teach you. Let those around you know what you admire in them. Acknowledge their gifts.
Night Eight Candle The Middah of Kavod, Respect
We must not only respect and honor ourselves, it is also our responsibility to respect and honor others L’dor V’dor, from Generation to Generation. We honor and respect those that came before us. Take time to interview those that came before you. A Grandparent, Parent, Aunt, Uncle. Ask them to tell you stories from their lives. Let them be your teachers. Learn from their stories.
We hope that you will find time to be with us during Chanukah. We have a really great line up on events. To view our Chanukah schedule and register for events, please visit our Main Chanukah Webpage by clicking the blue button below. Please note that many of our events require an RSVP by TOMORROW.
