Mikketz and Chanukah

Continuing on the theme of Chanukah, the symbolism of light and candles is found in many places.

It is stated "Ner Hashem Nishmat Adam" - the Human Soul is G-d's Light - literally, G-d's candle. A person, through carrying out G-d's Will, as previously discussed, is able to light up the world and draw down Divine Light and blessing. In other words, that person becomes a candle, an emanator, a channel for the light.

We are told to be "lamplighters". When we light a candle from another candle, the first candle does not lose anything as a result. The same applies in our own lives. The difference between power and influence is that whereas power is a zero-sum game, influence is like a candle lit from another candle - the more people I influence, the more influence I, in turn, possess - there is no loss involved but, on the contrary, a gain.

When a person finds themselves in a cold house, there are two options - either to put on a warm coat, or light a fire. The warm coat makes that person warmer - but does not affect others. Lighting a fire makes the whole house warm, for other people as well.

This is the universal message of Chanukah - it is not enough to curl up at home. It is necessary to be a lamplighter, to inspire others, to spread the message, particularly of Chanukah, and to affect other people for the better.

In this week's Torah portion, Mikeitz, it discusses Joseph, who rose from being Potiphar's slave to became second only to Pharaoh in the Egyptian hierarchy, yet maintained his moral standards and distinctive identity. Even as a slave in Potiphar's house, he rejects of the improper advances of his master's wife. Similarly throughout the narrative we see Joseph's maintaining of his standards.

Even in 'Egypt' where the emphasis is on the physical and material rather than spiritual, we must stand firm in our beliefs and hold true to our principles. Yes, go out into the world, involve oneself, in politics, in material matters or whatever else - but know where you are coming from. The high standards a person adhere to should serve not as an impediment, but as a light to others. They should be easily identifiable even in the most challenging places.

May this be G-d’s Will.

Happy Chanukah

Mordechai