The Maccabean War has gone down in history as a war for Jewish independence with the conquest of Jerusalem and the rededication of the Temple in the year 165 BCE. However, this was more than a victory for independence. It was really

Rabbi Max Fox life and death struggle of two different philosophies of thinking and living – a clash of two civilizations, Judaism against Hellenism.

Judaism taught that true happiness can be secured by fulfilling G-d’s laws and commandments. Hellenism taught that might and power, and physical gratification should dominate a person’s life. Judaism preached “the beauty of holiness” while Greek culture was more concerned in “the holiness of beauty” as the goal of mankind. Greek life was steeped in idol worship, games, and immorality. Judaism preached that “man doth not live by bread alone but by spiritual truths and values.”

Other nations take pride and set up

statues in honor of their victory in wars. The French celebrate Bastille Day or the French Revolution which ended the monarchy on July 14, 1789, by a military parade. The Russians celebrate the Russian revolution which ended the Tsarist rule in November, 1917, by a display of military might.

Our own country celebrates its independence by fireworks, picnics and parades.

We celebrate Chanukah, which marks our independence and spiritual freedom, by lighting candles, accompanied by prayers, and gifts to the poor and needy. Chanukah sends a strong message to the world: “All tyranny will vanish like smoke, and the light that emanates from the little Chanukah candles will some day dispel the darkness and gloom that hang over the earth.”