Letters from Alyssa: What Hanukkah Means to Me
Hi Friend,
As Jewish college students prepare to light this years’ Hanukkah candles, I’ve been reflecting on the deeper meaning behind the holiday’s glow. Hanukkah is often seen as a joyful, fun-filled celebration – spinning dreidels, eating latkes, and exchanging gifts. And it is! But beyond the festive lights and traditions, there’s a profound story about Jewish identity and resilience that inspires me.
Hanukkah isn’t just about the oil that lasted for eight days or even the military victory of the Maccabees against the occupying force of the Seleucid Greeks. It’s about the Jewish people reclaiming their homeland and reestablishing the right to live as Jews, to practice their traditions openly, and to govern themselves according to their values.
In many ways, Hanukkah is one of the earliest expressions of Zionism – the belief in the Jewish right to self-determination in our ancestral homeland. While the term “Zionism” didn’t exist in the time of the Maccabees, the spirit of the movement is present in their story. It’s about a connection to the land of Israel as a central tenet of Jewish identity, and the courage to preserve a way of life that reflects our values and beliefs.
This year, as we light the menorah, I’m thinking about what it means to rededicate ourselves to that courage and those values. Just as the Maccabees reclaimed the Temple and renewed their commitment to Jewish life, Hanukkah urges us to reflect on how we can carry forward that legacy of resilience and purpose.
To bring more meaning to my Hanukkah celebration this year, I’m:
- Reclaiming time for what matters: With life moving so fast, Hanukkah gives me a chance to slow down. Each night, I’m taking a moment to reflect on my Jewish identity – what it means to me, how I express it, and how I want to grow in the coming year.
- Lighting the menorah with intention: Each candle is more than just a light; it’s a reminder of the miracles we experience every day – the moments of hope and strength that make life meaningful.
- Sharing the story: I’m inviting friends – both Jewish and non-Jewish – to light the menorah with me and learn about Hanukkah’s deeper message. Celebrating together is a powerful example of how traditions like these continue to connect people.
For me, Hanukkah is a celebration of identity and values, showing us that the choices we make today can inspire not just this holiday, but generations to come.
Wishing you a Hanukkah filled with light, meaning, and the courage to lift up the ideas and values that are important to you.
Chag Urim sameach,
Alyssa
Originally from Los Angeles, Alyssa Wallack is a senior at the University of Southern California. A passionate advocate for Jewish and Israel-related causes, she’s now interning with Hillel International. When not immersed in her studies or various fellowships, Alyssa loves exploring LA’s food scene and connecting with fellow students about all things Jewish.