Hanukkah Festivities in Düsseldorf
Celebrating Chanukah in Solidarity: Düsseldorf's Vibrant Gathering
In the heart of Düsseldorf, the city came together to celebrate Chanukah, a festival that commemorates a historical event where a small group of devout Jews triumphed over the Greeks. This year's celebration, held on a chilly evening, was marked by unity, hope, and a poignant reminder of the power of light over darkness.
The event began with a warm welcome from Chaim Barkahn, who explained this year's theme, "Stronger together." The gathering was attended by Mayor Dr. Stephan Keller, district mayor Annette Klinke, and a host of guests, all of whom gathered under the glow of a six-meter tall Chanukah menorah set up at Schadowstraße over the Kö-Bogen tunnel.
Rabbi Levi Hefer, present at the celebration, lit the candles on the menorah, kindling the fifth light during the ceremony. The traditional doughnuts and dancing followed under the menorah, adding a festive atmosphere to the gathering.
The rabbi's words resonated throughout the square as he reminded everyone of the historical event that Chanukah commemorates. He spoke of the Temple's destruction and the miraculous eight-day burning of the Menorah's lights, even though there was not enough consecrated oil. He also expressed concern about the hostages still being held and called for their immediate release.
Mayor Keller reaffirmed the importance of hope and confidence in the wake of the October 7, 2023, terror attack. He emphasised Düsseldorf's solidarity with its partner city, Haifa, and expressed concern about the rise of anti-Semitism in the city.
The guests lit up the square with their phone lights after Rabbi Chaim Barkahn kindled the lights of the menorah, creating a beautiful spectacle of unity. The evening concluded with everyone present reciting a peace prayer for all peoples of the world together.
In a poignant moment, the rabbi noted that a small light can dispel darkness and that the light symbolically makes the world a better place. His words echoed through the square, reminding everyone of the power of unity, hope, and light in overcoming darkness and hate.
The administration will kindle the sixth light of the menorah on Monday (30.12.) at the town hall, continuing the public celebration of Chanukah in Düsseldorf. As the city comes together to celebrate, the spirit of Chanukah lives on, reminding everyone of the power of unity, hope, and light in the face of adversity.
