As we enter Kislev and approach Hanukkah, we are reminded of the light that shines within us and the ways we choose to share it. In this month’s Rosh Chodesh blog, Rabbi Dina Brawer of World Jewish Relief USA explores the balance between inward focus and outward action, and reflects on how her global humanitarian work can serve as a source of light and inspiration in these challenging times.

Of all the Jewish festivals, I find Hanukkah the most universal and outward facing. It invites each of us to draw from our personal resources to illuminate the darkness outside our homes. This year, I find myself reflecting on the symbolism inherent in the placement of the Hanukkah lights:

“The rabbis taught: It is a mitzvah to place the Hanukkah lamp at the entrance to one’s house on the outside; and one who lives upstairs puts it in a window that opens into the street. In times of danger, however, it is sufficient if the lights are placed on the table.” (Babylonian Talmud, Shabbat 21b)

The placement of the Hannukah lights represents a metaphor for how we choose to share our light — our energy, resources, and compassion — with the world in different circumstances.

The Talmudic rabbis saw the ideal placement at the entrance to the home, boldly shining outward and illuminating the public space. This placement embodies the essence of global humanitarian efforts: addressing urgent needs and striving to bring hope and dignity to those facing the darkness of poverty, displacement, or disaster. It reflects a commitment to extend beyond our immediate circles, serving as a source of light for the most vulnerable in the broader world.

Yet, the Talmud reminds us that there are moments when outward expression is not possible. In times of danger or crisis, it is sufficient to place the menorah on the table, directing our light inward ensuring that our immediate community is sustained and secure. In the wake of October 7th and the resurgence of antisemitism facing Jewish communities worldwide, strengthening the resilience of our Jewish communities has become ever more important. This inward focus has been critical and will remain crucial in the foreseeable months ahead.

And yet, alongside this, I feel that if as Jewish communities we turn exclusively inward in times of danger, we can shrink the scope of our vision and risk losing touch with the broader purpose that animates our Jewish values.

Between these two extremes lies a posture that most resonates with me: placing the lights at the window. This reflects a balance between inward and outward focus. It reminds us that while we invest in our safety and security, our resilience as a people has always been intertwined with our ability to contribute outwardly — to shine light on the world around us.

World Jewish Relief, the organization I serve, embodies this balance in its work. Founded in 1933 to rescue Jews in grave danger from Nazi persecution, it is now a global humanitarian relief organization, providing a vital lifeline to people experiencing the impact of conflict and climate disaster across the world, from both within and beyond the Jewish community.

Whether we choose to boldly shine our light outward, to focus it on illuminating our immediate circle, or balance both, the act of kindling Hanukkah lights is itself an act of faith and renewal. It reminds us that even in challenging times, our work has the power to push back the darkness and bring warmth and illumination to the world.