This evening we discuss why the father of Matityahu, Yochanan Kohein Gadol (High Priest), is mentioned in the prayer for Chanukah. Why not just list Matityahu by himself. We provide an answer from Rabbi Chaim Jachter based on a story about Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, the conclusion of which is either you are ascending is spirituality and holiness, or you are descending into the abyss, there is no other option.This sets the order of our lighting the Menorah, giving s ample time time to incorporate this message in our lives.

We then turn to the emotional difficulty of celebrating Chanukah this year, surrounded by darkness, loss, grief, and anger. A lesson from the iconic photo taken by Rachel Posner in 1931 helps us find a way. "We Will Dance Again!"

Michael Whitman is the senior rabbi of ADATH Congregation in Hampstead, Quebec, and an adjunct professor at McGill University Faculty of Law. ADATH is a modern orthodox synagogue community in suburban Montreal, providing Judaism for the next generation. We take great pleasure in welcoming everyone with a warm smile, while sharing inspiration through prayer, study, and friendship.

Rabbi Whitman shares his thoughts and inspirations through online lectures and shiurim, which are available on:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5FLcsC6xz5TmkirT1qObkA

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adathmichael/

Podcast - Mining the Riches of the Parsha:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mining-the-riches-of-the-parsha/id1479615142?fbclid=IwAR1c6YygRR6pvAKFvEmMGCcs0Y6hpmK8tXzPinbum8drqw2zLIo7c9SR-jc

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hWYhCG5GR8zygw4ZNsSmO

Please contact Rabbi Whitman ([email protected]) with any questions or feedback, or to receive a daily email, "Study with Rabbi Whitman Today," with current and past insights for that day, video, and audio, all in one short email sent directly to your inbox.