What were the heroes of the Chanukah battles thinking and feeling while digging through the ruble of the Temple Sanctuary? Were they able to hold on to any of the joy of their miraculous victory? They stepped into God's home and found idols, garbage and profanity. They were desperate to discover any sign of the Temple's sanctity and message. And they found a single, small jar of oil, still sealed, and even more remarkably, the seal was that of the High Priest. The Chanukah warriors with their swords and spears, tired, dirty and bloody, rejoiced over the tiny clay jar of oil, raised it so all could see the seal, with its symbol of the highest sanctity, and they knew a miracle was about to happen.

Perhaps, the greater miracle was the Chashmonaim's ability to see in a small remnant of sanctity the promise of a miraculous future.

The Foundation Stone wishes all a Chanukah that will inspire everyone to look forward, especially during these challenging times, with the anticipation that animated the Chanukah heroes: The anticipation of all the miracles, yet to happen.

Rabbi Simcha L. Weinberg
President