Why do we light a Chanukiah for eight nights? Why did the Maccabees risk everything to keep Jewish life alive? Why does a single jar of oil still matter thousands of years later?

In this episode of Little Lamplighters, we explore the story and spirit of Chanukah from the ground up. We look at what life was like under the Greek Syrian Empire, how Jewish practice came under threat, and how one family’s courage sparked a movement that changed Jewish history. We walk through the long years of the Maccabean revolt, the rededication of the Beit Hamikdash, the single jar of pure oil, and the eight days that followed.

We also share the midrashic story of Yehudit, a woman whose strategy and bravery saved her city, and how her actions became tied to the dairy foods many families enjoy during the holiday. Along the way, we trace the origins of customs like Pirsumei Nisa, Dreidel, Gelt, and the nightly increase of candlelight, showing how each tradition carries a piece of the larger story.

SHOW NOTES

Coin of King Antiochus discovered in Jerusalem:

https://www.timesofisrael.com/coin-struck-by-vilified-king-from-hanukkah-story-found-in-jerusalem/

Rachel Posner’s menorah and the photograph taken in 1932:

https://www.yadvashem.org/artifacts/museum/prewar-hanukkah-menorah-kiel.html

Why do Jews step outside their homes to eat in leafy huts beneath the stars? Why do we wave a bundle of plants in every direction? And why does the season end with singing, dancing, and sweet treats in shul?

In this episode of Little Lamplighters, we journey through the joy of Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah. From the command to dwell in a sukkah to the prayers for rain, from the waving of the lulav and etrog to the Torah’s great celebration of being completed and begun again, we uncover the meaning and history of these harvest time holidays.

Travel across time and tradition as we imagine sitting in the desert sukkot of our ancestors, welcoming honored guests known as Ushpizin, and marching joyfully with Torah scrolls around the world. Pull up close and join us for the season of joy, days of shelter, song, and the rejoicing of the Torah itself.

Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur: Shofars, White Robes, and the Gates of Heaven

Why do we blow the shofar, wear white, and fast for 25 hours? Why do we dip apples in honey and tap our hearts during prayer? In this High Holidays episode of Little Lamplighters, we step into the awe-filled days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

We explore the journey from Elul to Ne’ilah, from soul-searching to fresh starts. With immersive stories, kid questions, customs from around the world, and the powerful tale of Sandy Koufax’s Yom Kippur stand, we ask: What does it mean to begin again? Can one whistle open the gates of Heaven? And what if you don’t know the words, but still want to speak to Hashem?

Pull up close and join us for the Days of Awe. This episode is filled with meaning, memory, and the quiet courage it takes to say: this year, I want to grow.

Why do Jews fast, sit low to the ground, and read sad poems on the ninth of Av? What happened to the Temples in Jerusalem, and how did that moment change everything? In this episode of Little Lamplighters, we explore the story of Tisha B’Av, from the destruction of the First and Second Temples to the long journey of exile. We learn how Jews rebuilt communities around the world, held onto ancient traditions, and created new ones through courage and faith. With voices from Yemen to Russia, Ethiopia to Poland, we remember and we keep the dream of return alive.

Pull up close and travel across time and continents as we ask: What makes Israel so precious to Jews everywhere? How do we mourn while still hoping? And what does it mean to never forget where you come from?

As we mentioned in the episode, here are links to explore more:

• A photo of the Cyrus Cylinder, the ancient clay scroll that allowed Jews to return home after the Babylonian exile: smarthistory.org/cyrus-cylinder

• A photo of the Arch of Titus, built by the Romans to celebrate the destruction of the Second Temple, with the menorah from the Beit HaMikdash carved right into the stone: yu.edu/cis/activities/arch-of-titus

Why do Jews around the world pause each week, lighting candles, sharing meals, and singing ancient songs? In this episode of Little Lamplighters, we explore the magic of Shabbat, from its roots in Creation to the flickering light of Havdalah. Journey through the history, halacha, and heart of the seventh day, from the Mishkan in the desert to quiet acts of courage in the Soviet Union.

Share your favorite family custom, food, or melody by calling us at 617-213-0803.

In this Shavuot episode, Little Lamplighters traces the Jewish journey from slavery to Sinai. Why did Hashem choose a low, humble mountain? What made the Ten Commandments so soul-shaking? And what do cheesecake, flowers, and staying up all night have to do with receiving the Torah? With glowing clouds, blooming mountains, and timeless lessons, we explore the moment that changed everything—and how we say yes to it all over again.

In this Shavuot episode, Little Lamplighters traces the Jewish journey from slavery to Sinai. Why did Hashem choose a low, humble mountain? What made the Ten Commandments so soul-shaking? And what do cheesecake, flowers, and staying up all night have to do with receiving the Torah? With glowing clouds, blooming mountains, and timeless lessons, we explore the moment that changed everything—and how we say yes to it all over again.

What do drops of water, bonfires, and a mysterious cave in the hills of Israel have in common? In this Lag B’Omer episode of Little Lamplighters, we follow the fiery path of Rabbi Akiva, the heartbreaking loss of his students, and the mystical journey of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai—from fugitive to leader. Alongside our first-ever special guest (welcome, Sholom!), we explore the seven weeks of the Omer, the deep character traits we build along the way, and the light hidden within each of us. With stories of resilience, sacrifice, and leadership, this episode reminds us that fire doesn’t only burn—it transforms. So pull up close and discover how one spark of Torah can light up the world.

What do drops of water, bonfires, and a mysterious cave in the hills of Israel have in common? In this Lag B’Omer episode of Little Lamplighters, we follow the fiery path of Rabbi Akiva, the heartbreaking loss of his students, and the mystical journey of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai—from fugitive to leader. Alongside our first-ever special guest (welcome, Sholom!), we explore the seven weeks of the Omer, the deep character traits we build along the way, and the light hidden within each of us. With stories of resilience, sacrifice, and leadership, this episode reminds us that fire doesn’t only burn—it transforms. So pull up close and discover how one spark of Torah can light up the world.

What makes this night different from all the other nights? In the second half of our Pesach special, Little Lamplighters dives deep into the sights, sounds, and symbols of Pesach. Join us as we explore the meaning behind burning chametz, and why the Seder involves matza, maror, and the mysterious cup for Eliyahu Hanavi. Travel through each step of the night, uncovering the meaning behind the rituals, the stories behind the symbols, and the powerful hidden lessons. This isn’t just about what we eat or say—it’s about what we remember, what we feel, and what kind of people we choose to become.