Exodus Magazine - December 2021

#230 | December 2021 • Tevet 5782

‫ב׳׳ה‬

Chanukah Holiday Guide see page 16 Serving Canada's Jewish Russian Community Since 1980

n Holiday Companio ь по праздникам Exodus Magazine путеводител

AH CHANUK 6, 2021 Журнал Эксодус,

Nov 28 - Dec

Еврейский Центр Oбщины Онтарио

Русскоязычной

How

Chanukah

to Chanukah o list

day to-d

Pre-Holi

s/wicks a Menorah s (44 candle e or make or candle of Chanukah) • Acquir nights and wicks, ) up on oiltotal for the eight (pref. beeswax • Stock in s total) a candle are needed sure to have (8 shamash candle oil, make night • If usingas a shamash each ah treats, to use some Chanuk buy or make • Plan to donuts and latkes ah gelt handy such as and Chanuk draidels • Have some

nces: Primary Observa Menorah 1. Light the each night and publicize 2. Celebrate the miracle time 3. Spend quality Menorah around the

Jewish Russian Community Centre of Ontario

is...

festival is an eight-day Chanukah miracles orates the that commem ion of the the rededicat n surrounding and the Maccabea Holy Temple e Seleucid the oppressiv Revolt against BCE. It is 2nd Century Empire in the light,” and “festival of ng the known as the idea of illuminati celebrates the darkness.

an candles and for oil or wax candle. The has eight holders (“attendant”) A Menorah the shamash of Chanukah What is a Menorah? apart from the rest, for Since the miracle set ideal fuel. additional holder, oil or wax candles. olive oil is the can either be preferable, and Since the Chanukah lights Menorah is they produce. olive oil, an oil any smooth flame one, though happened with because of the are preferred to use a beautiful addition to the Cotton wicks it is customary row. In in a straight a mitzvah article, the shamash, Menorah is they are arranged be a place for should also do as long as or lower candles will candles, there a bit higher – which sits for the Chanukah candles for the other lights eight spots use beeswax tradition to is used to kindle it. There is a the candle that separate to candles than the other chair or Place it on a the shamash. you a central doorway.

Menorah in This way, when it? Set up the the mezuzah. mezuzah and Where to light that is opposite mitzvot – the off near the doorpost are surrounded by two small table 12 and 40 inches you be between the doorway, lights should facing the street, pass through a windowsill Ideally, the menorah Make sure the menorah on the menorah. set up your ground-level. not You can also thirty feet above children and the ground. is less than the reach of the window that is out of provided that fireproof surface on a sturdy, materials menorah is of the or other flammable at the time near curtains should be present their own Menorah. members family person lights light it? All families, each Who should own Menorahs. lighting. In some d to light their nightly menorah also be encourage should Children

The Chanukah

Story

BCE, the year 139 of Kislev in On the 25th Holy Temple liberated the the Maccabees the vastly after defeating in Jerusalem, armies of and powerful IV. (This more numerous ek king Antiochus ) the Syrian-Gre of Chanukah. great miracle was the first cleansed Jews repaired, to the The victorious d the Temple oil had and rededicate But all the Temple’s G-d. of service invaders; when by the pagan been defiled Temple’s to light the only the Jews sought a), they found menorah (candelabr olive oil fit of ritually pure one small cruse the one-day Miraculously, use. for Temple until new, for eight days, supply burned (This was the be obtained. ) pure oil could miracle of Chanukah. second great Chanukah in making your For assistance community updates about plans and for families, kids events for anukah Chanukah visit jrcc.org/Ch and adults, JRCC. or contact the

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

fierafoods.com

FOOD BANK VOLUNTEER

Wishes the entire Jewish Community a Happy Holidays!

with us

Call us at

416-222-7105 x 248

or visit us online at jrcc.help

Visit your local NOFRILLS store to find a large variety of fine Kosher products Carlo’s NOFRILLS: 6220 Yonge St. North York, ON M2M 3X4

SUPPORTED IN MEMORY OF

ANNE & ED MIRVISH

DONATE YOUR FURNITURE TO THOSE IN NEED!

Vince’s NOFRILLS: 1631 Rutherford Rd. Vaughan, ON L4K 0C1 Anthony’s NOFRILLS: 1054 Centre St, Thornhill, ON L4J 3M8

Call us @ 416-222-7105 ext. 248 to get a quote for pick-up

Andrew & Shelley’s NOFRILLS: 270 Wilson Ave. North York, ON M3H 1S6

Partly funded by The Regional Municipality of York

L&M Gelfand

DAYC ARE

Детский сад Еврейского Центра русскоязычной общины Онтарио

THE BEST START FOR YOUR CHILD

15 Months - 6 Years

care Full day pm m 0 a to 6 from 7:3

Kosher food And snacks (Cholov yisroel)

Jewish heritage exploration

prices.

Affordable available Subsidies

Stimulating, cutting edge curriculum

mily Warm fa nt e m n o envir

416.222.7105 x 501 5950 Bathurst St, North York, ON M2R 1Y9

www.JrccDayCare.org 1 Email: daycare@jrcc.org

Exodus Magazine is a project of the Jewish Russian Community Centre of Ontario editorial ad sales subscriptions donations fax

The Menorah plays a prominent role in the Torah and in Jewish. Why so much focus on the menorah, more than any other Temple vessel?

Because the kindled flames of the menorah encapsulate the very purpose of our lives: To illuminate our surroundings. Each of us must be a “walking menorah,” illuminating and warming everyone and everything we meet.

We live in a dark and cold world. Many of us are confused; others feel alone. It is hard to find our way in a material world that conceals the path of truth. Our souls wander the earth in search of our destiny, in search of some peace. The menorah teaches us that every single encounter allows us the opportunity to bring in some light and warmth to others and to ourselves.

How many people make you feel uplifted after a conversation? How many bring you down? How many of your friends bring a smile to your face?

How many a scorn?

Yes, we always have two choices: Either to illuminate others or to add to their misery. There is no third option. As the wise say, “If you are not busy being born, you are busy dying.” If you are not party of the cure, you are part of the problem. If you are not bringing light into this world you are contributing to its darkness.

As the Talmud tells us, “every generation that does not rebuild the Temple is considered as if it destroyed it.” Strong words. Because the status quo of a shrouded life is not healthy.

And therein lies our power: We have the ability to shine; to light up the darkest crevices.

Every interaction offers us the choice.

There are those who bring light to many people in the most discreet of ways. So discreet, that they themselves are often not aware of it. ___

The flames must rise on their own. It’s not enough to kindle a flame, but you have to ensure that the flame has the power to burn on its own.

e-mail

web

416.222.7105 x222 416.222.7105 x222 416.222.7105 x221 416.222.7105 x244 416.222.7812 exodus@jrcc.org exodusmagazine.org

editor

Izzy Greenberg

Commanding autocrats may wield great power.

But their control lasts only as long as their presence does. If you want to see real power look at the teacher that never makes commands or demands, but in his subtle way suggests. He teaches by inspiration and osmosis, rather than by fear and intimidation. He teaches you to rise on your own – to shine with your own brilliance, not just as an extension of his. And his influence lasts forever, because it’s not about his presence, but about his power to perpetuate.

editorial director

Rabbi Levi Jacobson & founder Rabbi Yoseph Y. Zaltzman

senior rabbi

director

Rabbi Mendel Zaltzman manager

Aryeh Rosenberg jrcc board of governors

Igor Korenzvit, Chair advertising sales

Rina Merovitch advertising design

Stacey Rimskey

___ The Torah portion about the Menorah also describes the institution of Pesach Sheni, the Second Passover. Those people who could not bring the Passover offering came demanding of Moses “why are we deprived.” Their persistence and outcry elicited a new mitzvah, that even those that “were distant or impure” during Passover, have now a second opportunity to bring the offering.

It’s never too late. Even when you may come late or miss your appointment, you always have a second chance. Persistence is a rare virtue, especially in a complacent world. You must have a powerful engine within to maintain momentum even when others are discouraging you from forging ahead. If you want to change the world you cannot afford to hear all the reasons why something can’t work. And persistence prevails.

When we sit and meditate by the Chanukah candles, we can ask ourselves: How many people have I illuminated and warmed today? How many have I inspired to rise on their own?

And finally, have I resigned myself because it sometimes seems too difficult? Never, never give up. Everything is possible, if you truly believe in it.

& layout Tekiyah Creative

graphics

cover art

Rolff Images distribution

JRCC, Origo Direct Marketing return undeliverable items to

EXODUS MAGAZINE, C/O JRCC 5987 BATHURST STREET, UNIT 3 TORONTO, ON M2R 1Z3

© 2021 JRCC. Published monthly by the Jewish Russian Community Centre of Ontario.

Issue Number 230 (December 2021) Mail Registration Number: 40062996 Circulation: 19,000 Subscription: $18 For submissions, please send articles via e-mail along with a biographical sketch of the author. Журнал Эксодус выпускается Еврейским Центром Русскоязычной Общины Онтарио. Журнал на русском языке можно приобрести позвонив по телефону (416) 222-7105.

CMCA AUDITED

Exodus Magazine is printed in Canada on recycled paper.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada

think! again.

December 2021 • Tevet 5782

6

6 | JEWISH SOUL

Increasing the Light

8

9

9 | JEWISH THOUGHT

Eight Thoughts for Eight Nights

The manner of lighting the Chanukah lights emphasizes the spirit and message of Chanukah, reminding us that we must similarly spread and intensify the light.

We all know the miracles of Chanukah; the military victory of the Maccabees against the Greeks, and the miracle of the oil. But there was a third miracle not many people know about.

— From the Rebbe's letters

— by Jonathan Sacks

19

editorial jewish soul made you think jewish thought ask the rabbi our community simchas holiday guide

7 | MADE YOU THINK

The Missing Festival

19 | FIRST PERSON

Pyat! The Miracle on the Fifth Night

One of the enigmas of Chanukah is the fact that it is almost completely ignored by the most fundamental work of Jewish law, the Mishnah, compiled at the end of the second century.

He had served in the army and attained a high rank, but nevertheless he was sentenced to fifteen years at hard labor for his crime. Now, in the camp, he resolved to return to Judaism.

— From the Rebbe's talks

— by Yerachmiel Tilles

8 | MADE YOU THINK

20 | LIFE ON EARTH

The victories themselves are not the distinctive feature of Chanukah; rather, it was the very nature of these wars that make the holiday so unique

An interesting difference between Chanukah and Purim: Both holidays have a small scroll—called a megillah—that tells their story. Purim has the Megillah of Esther. Chanukah has the Megillah of Antiochus.

— by Adin Even-Israel Steinsaltz

— by Tzvi Freeman

Lighting a New Kind of Candle

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

first person life on earth marketplace memorials

4 6 7 9 12 13 17 16 19 20 21 24

No Megillah on Chanukah?

5

jewish soul

Increasing

the

Light

From the Rebbe's Letters

A

propos of your Tzedakah for Rosh Chodesh Tevet, it is well to note that it always occurs during Chanukah.

And being the "head" of the month, it sets the tone for the whole month. Chanukah is the festival that grew out of a serious crisis that threatened to plunge our people in complete darkness, as exemplified by the enemy's contaminating all the oil in the Holy Temple and putting out the Menorah, the visible symbol of the light of the Torah and Mitzvoth. This attempt of the enemy was countered by an all-out resurgence of self-sacrifice for Torah and Mitzvoth, which not only dispelled the darkness, but intensified the light of Judaism even more than before, as reflected in the fact that the Chanukah Menorah, which we light ever since, has eight lamps, although the Menorah of the Holy Temple had only seven. Moreover, the manner of lighting the Chanukah lights further emphasizes the spirit and message of Chanukah, since we light the Chanukah candles in increasing numbers from day to day, reminding us that we must similarly spread and intensify the light of the Torah and Mitzvoth, however satisfactory and even perfect the level of Torah and Mitzvoth may be at any particular day.

And since G‑d rewards in kind, He sends His blessings in all needs likewise in a growing and most generous measure.

May G‑d grant that this should be so with you and yours and may you always have good news to report.

*

*

*

The Shaloh observes that Chanukah has a bearing and effect on the entire world. In his words: Chanukah, when the rededication of the Holy Temple took place, has to do with the renewal of the world, for the world was created for the sake of the Torah and the fulfillment of the Mitzvoth. The Greeks attempted

6

to abolish the Torah and Mitzvoth among the Jewish people. When the Hasmoneans prevailed over them, the Torah and Mitzvoth prevailed and thus the world was renewed....

And just as Creation began with “Let there be light,” so the Mitzvah of Chanukah begins with the lighting of candles.

The connection of Chanukah with the lighting of candles may further be elaborated on the basis of the special quality of the Mitzvah of the Chanukah Light, as has been discussed elsewhere at length. Briefly: All Mitzvoth produce effects in the world (as indicated in the Shaloh, above), but the effect is not always discernible to the physical eye or not discernible immediately upon the performance of the Mitzvah.

For example, the Mitzvah of Tzedakah, which is the “core” of all the Mitzvoth, carries the reward of life and sustenance to the giver of Tzedakah and to his family, and brings vitality to the world. But this does not come about in the direct manner of cause and effect as in the case of planting

and reaping, and the like, and is certainly not plainly evident to the physical eye, or understood by “secular” thinking.

Similarly in regard to the general performance of each and every Mitzvah, whereby the Light of the The Infinite is suffused in the world, as indicated in the verse, “for a Mitzvah is a candle and the Torah is light” It is not the kind of light that is visible to the physical eye.

There is a preeminence in the Mitzvoth connected with lighting candles—such as in the Holy Temple of old, and the Shabbat and Yom Tov candles in the home, etc.—in that the effect of the action, the appearance of light, is immediately visible; indeed it has to be visible to all who are in the house, which is actually illuminated by this light.

Among these latter Mitzvoth, the Mitzvah of kindling the Chanukah Light is unique in that it is required to be displayed to the outside, in accordance with the rule that it should be placed “at the entrance of the home, outside,” (if possible, or in the window). Thus every bypasser, including non-Jews, immediately notices the effect of the light, which illuminates the outside and the environment. Moreover, it becomes common knowledge in advance that Chanukah is coming and Jews everywhere will observe the precept of lighting candles that will illuminate the darkness of the night (since lighting time of the Chanukah lamp is after sunset), lighting up the outside.

From what has been said above about the physical effects of the Chanukah candles, it becomes apparent what their spiritual effects are: The Chanukah Light has the special quality of illuminating the darkness of the spiritual “outside,” the exile in its plain sense, as well as the inner “exile,” namely, the darkness of sin and of the evil inclination (they alone being the cause of the exile, in the ordinary sense, as it is written, “Because of our sins we have been exiled from our land”); and this act of illumination takes immediate effect, without requiring any prior explanation (i.e. even without preparation on the part of the “outside”). EM

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

made you think

The Missing Festival From the Rebbe's talks

O

ne of the enigmas of Chanukah is the fact that it is almost completely ignored by the most fundamental work of Jewish law. The Mishnah, compiled

by Rabbi Judah HaNassi at the end of the second century CE, is the first codification of Halachah (Torah law) and the book on which all subsequent halachic codes are based. Yet other than a few parenthetical references, the Mishnah makes no mention of the story and laws of Chanukah.

Various explanations have been offered for this mysterious omission. One oft-cited explanation relates to the controversial assumption of the throne by the Hasmonean family (the “Maccabees”), the heroes of Chanukah. When the Hasmoneans drove the Greeks from the Holy Land, they became the kings of the now-independent country, establishing a dynasty that lasted some 80 years until the land of Israel came under the hegemony of Rome.

The Hasmoneans were kohanim (“priests”), from the tribe of Levi, whose designated role is to serve in the Holy Temple. The sovereignty of Israel had been granted by G‑d to the tribe of Judah and the descendants of King David.

The Hasmoneans’ assumption of the throne was thus criticized by our sages.

Rabbi Judah HaNassi—goes this line of reasoning—himself a scion of the Davidic dynasty, “punished” the Hasmoneans’ appropriation of the throne by omitting the story of their triumph, and the festival they established, from the Mishnah.

This explanation, however, is at variance with everything we know about Rabbi Judah HaNassi and the principles of Torah scholarship: a) Rabbi Judah HaNassi was renowned not only for his greatness in Torah and as a leader of Israel, but also for his extreme humility. The Talmud goes so far as to say that: “When Rabbi [Judah] died, humility and piety ceased.”

It is therefore: “Completely unacceptable… regarding Rabbi Judah, to say that because of his honor and the honor of his ancestors he would suppress publication of the miracle [of Chanukah].”

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

b) The function of an halachic work is to instruct our behavior. Since no one is suggesting that Rabbi Judah ever contested the legitimacy of the festival and its observances (which occupy several folios in the Talmud in which Rabbi Judah’s colleagues and disciples are quoted extensively), would Rabbi Judah have omitted them in order to express his disagreement with the Hasmoneans?

Whatever his feelings on the matter, we still need to know the laws of Chanukah! In the words of the Talmud: “King Solomon, and a thousand like him, shall be nullified before a single letter from the Torah is nullified!”

An examination of the nature of the Mishnah and the circumstances surrounding its compilation offers a simple, yet fully credible, explanation for Chanukah’s absence from its pages.

The Mishnah is a summary of the “Oral Torah” that had been handed down through the generations as a companion to the “Written Torah” (the Five Books of Moses).

The Oral Torah includes the laws and principles according to which the Written Torah is to be interpreted, laws commanded to Moses that were not recorded in the Written Torah, and the ordinances and observances instituted by each generation’s leaders by the authority vested in them by the Torah.

As its name indicates, the Oral Torah was never written down, but communicated orally from master to pupil; indeed, it was specifically forbidden to be committed to writing. Rabbi Judah HaNassi took the unprecedented step of codifying these laws because he realized that the ever-widening dispersion of the Jewish people, and the lesser minds of later generations, posed the danger that the Oral Torah might be forgotten. It was this overriding concern that allowed him to violate the prohibition against publishing the Oral Torah.

However, this dispensation was granted only in regard to those portions of the Oral Torah that were in danger of being forgotten. This, explains Maimonides, is why such major halachic topics such as: “The laws of tzitzit, tefillin and mezuzah…. are not spoken of in the Mishnah… for these laws were well known at the time of the Mishnah’s compilation… so [Rabbi Judah] saw no need to speak of them.”

The same is true of all laws of the Mishnah: only those laws about which there was ambiguity or differences of opinion are recorded. For example, nowhere does the Mishnah state that one should make kiddush on Shabbat; rather, it addresses the issue, debated by the sages of Hillel and the sages of Shammai, whether one should first make kiddush and then ritually wash one’s hands (as required before each meal), or vice versa.

The events of Chanukah took place only about 300 years before Rabbi Judah’s time; the miracle, and the festival instituted in its wake, were still fresh in the nation’s collective memory. Since there was no immediate danger that they might be forgotten, Rabbi Judah was not allowed to record them.

Thus, the laws of Chanukah were first put in writing many years later, when the Talmud was compiled in the fifth century CE. EM

7

made you think

Lighting

a

New Kind

of

Candle

Adin Even-Israel Stainsaltz

T

he holiday of Chanukah commemorates the revolt, wars and victory of the Hasmoneans against Greece. Hanukkah is not the only holiday instituted to commemorate victories in the Jewish wars during the Second Temple period. But, while all the other days have been forgotten, the holiday of Hanukkah has remained. Furthermore, the Rabbis tell us that even if all other holidays were to disappear, Hanukkah will never be abolished.

There are other explanations, historical accounts and stories about the miracles of Hanukkah but – as explained clearly in the special Hanukkah prayers that have been embedded in Jewish liturgy from ancient times — these victories are the main reason for the holiday.

The victories themselves are not the distinctive feature of Hanukkah; rather, it was the very nature of these wars that make the holiday so unique. Until the Hasmoneans, all wars were intrinsically simple affairs: people went to war because of real or imaginary threats, out of greed for somebody else’s possessions, or due to personal and national desires for glory. This aspect of war has not changed very much: to date, most of the wars in the world – be they aggressive or defensive – erupt because of these political and economic factors.

The Hasmonean wars were the first ideological wars in history. They were fought because the Jewish people rejected foreign ideology and were willing to march into many bitter battles in order to maintain their ideological independence. Of course, national and economic elements were intermingled, but they were secondary to the main drive that created this revolt and kept the wars going. However, the notion that a people’s attachment to their religion is not merely sentimental – that religion and lifestyle are important enough to fight and die for – was something completely unknown before.

On a deeper level, the importance of the Hasmonean wars is not only the fact that they introduced a “new reason” for fighting.

It is that they triggered a basic change in people’s perspective. From then on, religion

8

and belief were no longer a mere matter of habit and convenience. They became a vital component of life. These wars were a symptom of a more profound change – namely, a change in the perception of what is important and what is not. If people now go to war in order to protect or disseminate their faith, it means that faith has become a central motivation in people’s lives. If people are willing to die for their religion, it means that they are more than ready to live for it.

It may seem that this is all a matter of the past, but I assert that the message of Hanukkah is still just as pertinent today. In many parts of the world, war – as well as life – has reverted to the most basic corporeal needs. In the present time, there seems to be a pandemic deluge: the world is shaking, the future is uncertain. At such times, it is important to devote a great amount of thinking to the fundamental drives of society. A tsunami or a volcanic eruption cause changes in the environment. After a deluge, there is an even more profound

change. Now is the time for re-thinking and re-assessing the values that have been governing our society.

Times like ours create at least the possibility for finding new paradigms for society. The easy way out – which the powerful elements of our time uphold and preach – is to keep the old order as it was and make some minor corrections as the need arises: providing funds for big banks or major corporations in trouble, or even assisting some of the unfortunate who were caught in the deluge.

Such changes and amendments may keep things in place for a while, but what we have here is an all-embracing earthquake.

Putting plaster on cracked walls may keep a building from collapsing for some time, but for thorough reparation, one must penetrate the surface and re-examine the foundations.

In the past and present, the overwhelming enveloping attitude has been that only two things really count: money and individual advancement. It seems that now, these two elements have cracked to such an extent that mere whitewashing will not help. The time has therefore come for us to begin thinking in altogether different terms. The notions of good and evil should replace those of legal and illegal – not only from the moral point of view, but also from the practical one. The common good and the re-structuring and rebuilding of notions such as family and community should push aside the overwhelming desire for individual success.

This revision should also include giving much more room to the “vertical” relationship – namely, that between man and Heaven, rather than to the “horizontal” one which has been governing the lives of many individuals for quite some time.

These ideas are not entirely new. One may say that in some way, the Hasmonean wars were the death signals of pagan society, which since then has been replaced by other types of ideology. The events of our time may also help demolish the nouveau-pagan western-style society, and instill in it values of right and wrong instead of feasibility and practicality. Perhaps now, as was the case at the time of Hanukkah, the time has come for lighting a new kind of candle. EM

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

jewish thought

Eight Thoughts

for

Eight Nights

Jonathan Sacks

T

wenty-two centuries ago, when Israel was under the rule of the empire of Alexander the Great, one particular leader, Antiochus IV, decided to force the pace of Hellenization. He forbade Jews from practising their religion and even set up a statue of Zeus Olympus in the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. This was too much to bear, and a group of Jews, the Maccabees, fought for their religious freedom, winning a stunning victory against the most powerful army of the ancient world. After three years of conflict, they reconquered Jerusalem, rededicated the Holy Temple and relit the Menorah with the one cruse of undefiled oil they found among the wreckage. It was one of the most spectacular military achievements of the ancient world. It was, as we say in our prayers, a victory of the few over the many, the weak over the strong. It is summed up in wonderful line from the Prophet Zechariah: “Not by might nor by strength but by my spirit says the Lord.”

(Zechariah, 4:6) The Maccabees had neither might nor strength, neither weapons nor numbers. But they had a double portion of the Jewish spirit that longs for freedom and is prepared to fight for it. Never believe that a handful of dedicated people can’t change the world. Inspired by faith, they can. The Maccabees did then. So can we today.

There is a law about Chanukah I find moving and profound. Rambam writes that ‘the command of Chanukah lights is very precious. One who lacks the money to buy lights should sell something, or if necessary borrow money, so as to be able to fulfil the mitzvah.’ The question then arises: What if, on a Friday afternoon, you find yourself with only one candle? Should you light it as a Shabbat candle or a Chanukah one? It can’t be both. Logic suggests that you should light it as a Chanukah candle. After all, there is no law that you have to sell or borrow to light lights for Shabbat. Yet the law is, surprisingly, that when faced with such a choice, you light your only candle as a Shabbat light. Why? Listen to Rambam: ‘The Shabbat light takes priority because it symbolizes shalom bayit, domestic peace. And great is peace because the entire Torah was given in order to make

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

peace in the world.’ Consider: Chanukah commemorates one of the greatest military victories in Jewish history. Yet Jewish law rules that if we can only light one candle – the Shabbat light takes precedence, because in Judaism the greatest military victory takes second place to peace in the home. Why did Judaism, alone among the civilizations of the ancient world, survive? Because it valued the home more than the battlefield, marriage more than military grandeur, and children more than generals. Peace in the home mattered to our ancestors more than the greatest military victory.

the inner light of Shabbat, joined to the outer light we make during the six days of the week when we go out into the world and live our faith in public. When we live as Jews in private, filling our homes with the light of the Divine presence, when we live as Jews in public, bringing the light of hope to others, and when we live both together, then we bring light to the world. There always were two ways to live in a world that is often dark and full of tears. We can curse the darkness or we can light a light, and as the Chassidim say, a little light drives out much darkness.

May we all help light up the world.

There is more than one command in Judaism to light lights. There are three. There are the Shabbat candles. There is the havdallah candle. And there are the Chanukah candles.

The difference between them is that Shabbat candles represent shalom bayit, peace in the home. They are lit indoors. They are, if you like, Judaism’s inner light, the light of the sanctity of marriage and the holiness of home. The Chanukah candles used to be lit outside — outside the front door. It was only fear of persecution that took the Chanukah candles back inside, and in recent times the Lubavitcher Rebbe introduced the custom of lighting giant menorahs in public places to bring back the original spirit of the day.

Chanukah candles are the light Judaism brings to the world when we are unafraid to announce our identity in public, live by our principles, and fight, if necessary, for our freedom. As for the havdallah candle, which is always made up of several wicks woven together, it represents the fusion of the two,

One of the key phrases of our time is “the clash of civilizations”. And Chanukah is about one of the first great clashes of civilization, between the Greeks and Jews of antiquity, Athens and Jerusalem. The ancient Greeks produced one of the most remarkable civilizations of all time: philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, historians like Herodotus and Thucydides, dramatists like Sophocles and Aeschylus. They produced art and architecture of a beauty that has never been surpassed. Yet in the 2nd century BCE they were defeated by the group of Jewish fighters known as the Maccabees, and from then on Greece as a world power went into rapid decline, while the tiny Jewish people survived every exile and persecution and are still alive and well today. What was the key difference between the two groups? The Greeks, who did not believe in a single, loving G‑d, gave the world the concept of tragedy: We strive, we struggle, at times we achieve greatness, but life has no ultimate purpose.

9

jewish thought

The universe neither knows nor cares that we are here. In stark contrast, Ancient Israel gave the world the idea of hope. We are here because G‑d created us in love, and through love we discover the meaning and purpose of life. Tragic cultures eventually disintegrate and die. Lacking any sense of ultimate meaning, they lose the moral beliefs and habits on which continuity depends. They sacrifice happiness for pleasure. They sell the future for the present. They lose the passion and energy that brought them greatness in the first place. That’s what happened to Ancient Greece. Judaism and its culture of hope survived, and the Chanukah lights are the ultimate symbol of that survival, of Judaism’s refusal to abandon its values for the glamour and prestige of a secular culture, then or now. A candle of hope may seem a small thing, but on it the very survival of a civilization may depend.

Back in 1991, I lit Chanukah candles with Mikhail Gorbachev, who had, until earlier that year, been President of the Soviet Union.

For seventy years, the practice of Judaism had been effectively banned in communist Russia. It was one of the two great assaults on our people and our faith in the 20th century. The Germans sought to kill Jews; the Russians tried to kill Judaism. Under Stalin the assault became brutal. In 1967, after Israel’s victory in the Six Day War, many Soviet Jews sought to leave Russia and go to Israel. Not only was permission refused, but often the Jews concerned lost their jobs and were imprisoned. Around the world, Jews campaigned for the prisoners, Refuseniks they were called, to be released and permitted to leave the country. Eventually Mikhail Gorbachev realized that the whole Soviet system was unworkable. Communism had brought repression, a police state, and a new hierarchy of power, not freedom and equality. In the end it collapsed, and Jews regained the freedom to practise Judaism and to go to Israel. That day in 1991, after we had lit candles together, Mr. Gorbachev asked me, through his interpreter, what we had just done. I told him that 22 centuries ago in Israel after the public practice of Judaism had been banned, Jews fought for

10

and won their freedom, and these lights were the symbol of that victory. And I continued: “Seventy years ago, Jews suffered the same loss of freedom in Russia, and you have now helped them to regain it. So you have become part of the Chanukah story.” And as the interpreter translated those words into Russian, Mikhail Gorbachev blushed.

The Chanukah story still lives, still inspires, telling not just us but the world that though tyranny exists, freedom, with G‑d’s help, will always win the final battle.

We all know the miracles of Chanukah; the military victory of the Maccabees against the Greeks, and the miracle of the oil that should have lasted one day but kept the Menorah lights burning for eight.

But there was a third miracle not many people know about. It took place several centuries later. After the destruction of the Second Temple, many Rabbis were convinced that the festival of Chanukah should be abolished. After all, it celebrated the rededication of the Temple. And the

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

Holy Temple was no more. It had been destroyed by the Romans under Titus.

Without a Holy Temple, what was there left to celebrate? The Talmud tells us that in at least one town, Lod, Chanukah was abolished. Yet eventually the other view prevailed, which is why we continue to celebrate Chanukah to this day. Why? Because although the Holy Temple was destroyed, Jewish hope was not destroyed.

We may have lost the building but we still have the story, and the memory, and the light. And what had happened once in the days of the Maccabees could happen again.

So as you light the Chanukah candles remember this: The Jewish people kept hope alive, and hope kept the Jewish people alive. We are the voice of hope in the conversation of humankind.

There is an interesting question the commentators ask about Chanukah. For eight days we light lights, and each night we make the blessing over miracles: sheasah nissim la-avotenu – ‘‘that He made a miracle for our ancestors.’’ But what was the miracle of the first night? The light that should have lasted one day lasted eight. But that means there was something miraculous about days two to eight; nothing miraculous about the first day. Perhaps the miracle was this: That the Maccabees found one cruse of oil with its seal intact, undefiled. There was no reason to suppose that anything would have survived the systematic desecration the Greeks and their supporters did to the Holy Temple. Yet the Maccabees searched and found that one cruse. Why did they search? Because they had faith that from the worst tragedy, something would survive. The miracle of the first night was that of faith itself, the faith that something would remain with which to begin again. So it has always been in Jewish history. There were times when any other people would have given up in despair: after the destruction of the Holy Temple, or the massacres of the Crusades, or the Spanish Expulsion, or the pogroms, or the Shoah. But somehow, Jews did not merely sit and weep. They gathered what remained, rebuilt our people, and lit a light

like no other in history, a light that tells us, and the world, of the power of the human spirit to overcome every tragedy and refuse to accept defeat. From the days of Moses and the bush that burned and was not consumed, to the days of the Maccabees and the single cruse of oil, Judaism has been humanity’s ner tamid, the everlasting light that no power on earth can extinguish.

There is a fascinating argument in the Talmud which debates the following question: Can you take one Chanukah light to light another? Usually, of course, we take an extra light, the shamash, and use it to light all the candles. But suppose we don’t have one. Can we light the first candle and then use it to light the others? Two great Sages of the third century, Rav and Shmuel, disagreed. Rav said ‘No’. Shmuel said ‘Yes’.

Normally we have a rule that when Rav and Shmuel disagree, the law follows Rav. There are only three exceptions, and this is one of them. Why did Rav say you may not take one Chanukah candle to light the others?

Because, says the Talmud, ka mach-chish mitzvah. You will diminish the first candle.

Inevitably you will spill some of the wax or the oil. And Rav says: don’t do anything that would diminish the light of the first.

But Shmuel disagrees, and the law follows Shmuel. Why? The best way of answering that is to think of two Jews: both religious, both committed, both living Jewish lives.

One says: I must not get involved with Jews who are less religious than me, because if I do, my own standards will fall. I’ll keep less. My light will be diminished. That’s the view of Rav. The other says: No. When I use the flame of my faith to light a candle in someone else’s life, my Jewishness is not diminished. It grows, because there is now more Jewish light in the world. When it comes to spiritual goods as opposed to material goods, the more I share, the more I have. If I share my knowledge, or faith, or love with others, I won’t have less; I may even have more. That’s the view of Shmuel, and that is how the law was eventually decided. So share your Judaism with others.

Take the flame of your faith and help set other souls on fire. EM

future tense

MOSHIACH MUSINGS

In Hebrew, the word shemonah (eight) has the same exact letters as hashemen (the oil), neshama (soul), and mishna (transmitted teaching). As recorded in the Talmud, the SyrianGreeks had entered the Temple and sullied all its oil. This oil represents the deepest level of the Jewish soul.

It represents the Jew's potential to awaken from the deepest slumber of exile, to come to life even (and perhaps especially) under the most trying circumstances. Only one jar of pure oil was found, sealed with the seal of the Kohen Gadol (high priest), the holiest Jew, who embodied the level of "eight" by virtue of the eight special garments he wore when serving in the Temple.

"Eight" beckons us to transcend the constrictions of time and space, to see through a world that disguises G‑dliness and threatens to engulf our souls in materiality. "Eight" calls us to see miracles in the order of nature, in confusing events of our individual and collective lives, in the hidden pathways of Divine Providence that guide us.

"Eight" can rouse us from our collective slumber. By reminding us of the time when G‑d did indeed overtly "interfere" with and "alter" the "natural" course of history, it quickens our anticipation of the revelation of G‑d's salvation that we await in our time.

ask the rabbi

Is Chanukah a Big Deal?

Rabbi Yoseph Y. Zaltzman

Q

Is Chanukah a major holiday or a minor one? It seems like Rosh Hashanah and Passover are major holidays, and so we shouldn’t make such a big deal out of it. Is the only reason we make a big deal out of it because of the season?

The answer depends on your definition of “major.” Many define major Jewish holidays as those that feature traditional holiday meals, kiddush, holiday candle-lighting, etc., and when work is forbidden. Only biblical holidays fit this criteria, and Chanukah was instituted some two centuries after the Bible was completed and canonized.

Nevertheless, though Chanukah is of rabbinic origin, it is traditionally celebrated in a “major” and very public fashion. The requirement to position the Chanukah menorah at the door or window symbolizes our desire to give the Chanukah miracle a “high profile.”

Unlike Rosh Hashanah, Passover and other holidays, which are Biblically prescribed days of rest, we go to work on Chanukah. Even on Purim, going to work is not recommended, yet on Chanukah, no problem.

Then there's the clothes. On Jewish holidays we wear special clothes. But the days of Chanukah are regular workdays in regular clothes.

But other than that it's difficult to call Chanukah a minor holiday. For one thing, read what Maimonides writes in his Laws of Chanukah: “The mitzvah of kindling Chanukah lamps is a very precious mitzvah. A person should be very careful in its observance, to publicize the miracle and thus increase our praise of G‑d and our expression of thanks for the miracles which He wrought on our behalf. Even if a person has no resources for food except what he receives from charity, he should pawn or sell his garments and purchase oil and lamps to kindle them.”

Maimonides continues by instructing that if one has only enough money to afford either a cup of wine for Shabbat kiddush or oil for his Chanukah lamp, the mitzvah of

12

Chanukah takes precedence. Doesn’t sound too minor to me.

Some have suggested that Chanukah gained popularity in reaction to the sensory bombardment provided by the majority culture's holiday. If anything, it would be more accurate to say that Chanukah may have retained it's popularity due to it's position on the calendar.

Nevertheless, it's unclear what makes this lamentable. Indeed, it sounds like a very good strategy: If a big fish is swallowing you alive, thrash about and make a lot of noise!

Truth be told, Chanukah did make a small retreat for quite a few centuries. Originally, everyone lit their Chanukah lights at the entrance to their homes. When Jews lived among people hostile to their faith, they had to bring that light indoors, out of fear for their lives.

In the 1970s, however, the Rebbe began a campaign of lighting prominent, highly visible Chanukah menorahs in public places.

Since then, in shopping malls and town squares wherever there are Jews, Chanukah has once again become a very open, public celebration.

This is really what Chanukah is all about: to “light up the darkness” (which is why we light it at night, at the door or window). So, even though it’s a regular workday—well, that’s really the whole idea: to light up the regular workday. And that takes a very special light.

At any rate, since when do we look for excuses not to celebrate? On the contrary, in the words of wise King Solomon, “A good heart always celebrates.” EM

- Еврейская традиция предписывает нам жить в ногу со временем. В ногу со временем – это означает в соответствии с еврейским календарем. В этом году праздник Ханука наступает в конце ноября. Общеизвестно, что Ханука – это праздник чудес и само его предназначение – поведать всему миру о чуде. Очень хорошо. А что такое чудо? Какое значение имеет чудо в еврейской истории? Давайте поговорим об этом. Чудо – это то, что противоположно законам природы. То есть, чудо – это то, что не может произойти в рамках законов природы? Не может или не должно. Но теперь надо ответить на вопрос: «А что такое законы природы?» Тора говорит, что сами законы природы – это чудо, продолжающееся постоянно. Законы природы – не процесс эволюции, а создание Творца. Вс-вышний создал так, что, следуя закону притяжения, камень падает вниз, Земля вращается вокруг Солнца и т.д. Все действует четко, точно по графику. Мы уверены, что сегодня вечером станет темно, а утром появится Солнце. Кто обязывает Солнце осветить Землю, у кого это в руках? У Того, Кто создал этот мир и руководит Своим созданием. Как уже было сказано, законы природы – постоянно продолжающееся чудо, и Вс-вышний руководит миром, ежесекундно заставляя это чудо происходить вновь и вновь. Но есть еще и иной способ, посредством которого Вс-вышний руководит миром: когда Творец хочет достичь определенной цели, он иногда действует против Им же созданных законов природы. Происходит то, что мы обычно считаем противоестественным.

The article above is excerpted from the Russian edition of Exodus Magazine. To subscribe, please visit exodusmagazine.org or call 416.222.7105.

Rabbi Yoseph Y. Zaltzman is the Senior Rabbi of the Jewish Russian Community Centre of Ontario. You can Ask the Rabbi at jrcc.org or fax to 416.222.7812. To meet with Rabbi Zaltzman in person, feel free to call 416.222.7105 to book an appointment.

Appointments are generally available on Wednesday evenings after 7pm.

Rebbitzin Chiena Zaltzman is also available for private consultations by appointment on Wednesday evenings from 9 to 10pm by calling 416.222.7105.

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

‫ב”ה‬ ‫ב''ה‬

Our

DECEMBER 2021 | TEVET 5782

Community

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

AN INTERNATIONAL GATHERING

НОЯБРЬ 2020

DECEMBER2021 11/28 12/06 NOVEMBER

28

NOVEMBER

28

DECEMBER

09

CHANUKAH

CHANUKAH WONDERLAND

PUBLIC MENORAH LIGHTING

5 TEVET FARBRENGEN

KISLEV 5781

T H E M O N T H I N R E V I E W. U P C O M I N G E V E N T S & P R O G R A M S .

JRCC rabbis were among those participating in the annual Kinus HaShluchim, the international conference of Chabad emissaries from around the world. After spending Shabbat at the Rebbe’s shul at 770 Eastern Parkway (Lubavitch World Headquarters) over 5,000 Chabad rabbis and their guests joined the gala banquet on Sunday evening October 31. It was especially meaningful to gather together this year after last year’s conference was cancelled due to COVID. The banquet, held at the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center in Edison, NJ, was an evening of inspiration celebrating the flourishing of Jewish life around the world, with many uplifting and miraculous stories shared, and included speeches, feature videos, music and dancing.

OVER THIRTY GIRLS JOIN BAT MITZVAH CLUB

The JRCC Bat Mitzvah Club is a one of a kind experience for girls ages 11-13, regardless of synagogue affiliation. Girls from across the city get together once a week for an amazing time to celebrate what is means to become a Bat Mitzvah through interactive games, discussions, arts and crafts, community projects, and field trips. Through the Bat Mitzvah Club, young women learn what it really means to be a Bat Mitzvah in the modern world. They get in touch with their Jewish self through art, creative writing and community outreach, discuss hot topics and share their interests, goals, hopes and dreams. Joining the Bat Mitzvah Club is the ultimate Bat Mitzvah present. Find our more at jrcc.org/bat.

19 KISLEV FARBRENGEN IN WEST THORNHILL

DECEMBER

14

FAST OF TEVET 10

CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES Friday, Dec 3, 2021

4:23 PM

Friday, Dec 10, 2021

4:23 PM

Friday, Dec 17, 2021

4:24 PM

Friday, Dec 24, 2021

4:27 PM

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

Farbrengens, or “informal gatherings,” are a regular and central part of community life, where friends and neighbors get together, usually to mark important collective and personal dates and milestones. Stories and Torah thoughts are spoken, as participants share words of wisdom, encouragement and song, while enjoying l’chains and refreshments. On Tuesday, November 23 a large farbrengen gathering was held at the JRCC West Thornhill in honor of the 19th Kislev – a day celebrated by Jews around the world as the Festival of Liberation and the Rosh Hashana of Chassidus. It marks the day the Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, founder of Chabad, was freed from Czarist imprisonment, where he was interrogated and tortured after being falsely accused of treason in 1798.

It is also the anniversary of the printing of the holy Tanya, the fundamental text of Chabad teachings, in 1796. The day is considered a milestone for the Chassidic movement, one that contributed dramatically to the flourishing of its communities and teachings since. Learn more at jrcc.org/farbrengen.

JOIN US FOR CHANUKAH EVENTS

As this issue goes to print, Chanukah is just around the corner. A wide variety of events is planned, including the annual Public Menorah Lighting held on the first night of Chanukah, Sunday, November 28 at 5:30pm at Mel Lastman Square. The even generally attracts hundreds of community members, local residents, as well as a number of passers by who were curious about the festive event, live music, refreshments and the 13-foot tall menorah in front of City Hall. The annual Chanukah Wonderland Carnival will once again be a virtual affair due to COVID. Those who register will receive a box of art and baking supplies delivered to their door in order to participate in the virtual event. Sign up for some pre-Chanukah fun for your family at jrcc.org/wonderland. There will also be dozens of local community chanukah parties for children, teens and adults. Due to COVID protocols and restrictions, RSVP is recommended. See the even listing and more Chanukah info at jrcc.org/chanukah.

13

Photo of the Month

JRCC Woodbridge hosted a farbregen in honour of the 14 Kislev- The Rebbes wedding anniversary.

PUBLIC MENORAH LIGHTING Watch our Rabbis and dignitaries as they light the giant menorah at Mel Lastman Square.

WILLOWDALE:

Sunday, November 28

CHANUKAH PARTY

NORTH YORK CIVIC CENTRE

CONCORD:

LIGHT UP

Monday, November 29

COMMUNITY CHANUKAH PARTY

THE NIGHT

ETOBICOKE:

Monday, November 29

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28 AT 6PM. www.jrcc.org/MenorahLighting YOUR CHILD WILL ENJOY A UNIQUE PROGRAM OF DANCING, SINGING, FINGER GYMNASTICS, PAINTING, AND MUCH MORE.

A TASTE OF

FOR TODDLE RS 18-36 MONTHS

KLYUCHIK Every Tuesday, 10:00 - 10:45 in Russian

JRCC East Thornhill, 7608 Yonge St. # 3 $120/12 weeks Space is limited. Registration required.

RSVP: www.JrccEastThornhill.org/Klyuchik

14

ht to you by oug Br

MENORAH LIGHTING ETOBICOKE CIVIC CENTRE

SCARBOROUGH:

Tuesday, November 30

MENORAH LIGHTING

CHANUKAH Parties

SCARBOROUGH CIVIC CENTRE

ROCKFORD: Friday, December 3

COMMUNITY SHABBAT DINNER

EAST THORNHILL:

Saturday Night, December 4

CHANUKAH CAFE

S. RICHMOND HILL & MAPLE:

Saturday Night, December 4

BISTRO CHANUKAH

WWW.JRCC.ORG/CHANUKAHPARTIES December 2021 / Tevet 5782

Faces of the Community

5 TEVET

Lio Vigdorchik Musician and Music Teacher

FARBRENGEN THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 8 P.M. At JRCC Willowdale, 17 Church Ave.

jrcc.org

Celebrating the Victory of the Books and Rabbi and Chiena Zaltzman’s arrival in Toronto for shlichus in 1980.

WelL-ConNected It’s not what you know.

It’s what you do.

A M O N T H LY S E R I E S O F C L A S S E S F O R WO M E N

FOOD FOR THE BODY & SOUL PART 1: SOUL FOOD MONDAY, December 13 – 7:30 pm PART 2: COOKING

DEMO SHABBAT IN 1 HOUR! THURSDAY, December 16 – 8:00 pm

R S V P : J rc c E a s tTh o r n h i l l . o rg / rc s

CHANUKAH EVENTS r kids fo

WEST THORNHILL:

Tuesday, November 30

Tell us a little about your career.

By profession I am a violinist. I graduated from the Leningrad Conservatory majoring in violin. I played in a chamber orchestra and taught music in Russia and Latvia for many years. When I moved to Canada, I was unable to find a teaching job. Then I applied to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, auditioned and was accepted into the violin group. Over time, I was invited to teach both at the conservatory and at the university.

In the 1990s I was awarded the title of professor at the University of Toronto. Many of my students became soloists of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, an internationally recognized musical group. One of my students studied with me from eleven to eighteen years old. Over the years, she has reached the level that allowed her to enter the New York Symphony Orchestra - the best in the world. I consider this my great achievement. Many of my students became laureates of various competitions. Three of them have played with the orchestra seven times at the famous Roy Thompson Hall.

Please tell us about your family’s history.

My maternal grandmother, Ginda Ostrovenets, lived in Mogilev and then moved to Gomel. She was a deeply religious woman and celebrated all Jewish holidays. My parents, on the other hand, lived like ordinary Soviet citizens from a young age, so only my grandmother observed Jewish traditions.

I was born in Gomel. When I was eight years old, the war began. The city authorities organized an urgent evacuation of the population. A mass of people gathered at the station. My parents did not even try to approach the cars, because there was a wild crush. Passing over the shoulders and heads from one to the other, my sister and I were pushed into the window of the carriage, where our aunt – my father's sister – was already there. We arrived at a village near Stalingrad. Later, our parents found us there, and we all left for Tashkent.

Back in Gomel, I had started learning to play the violin. In Tashkent, my mother saw an announcement that the special music school for gifted children at the Leningrad Conservatory was recruiting. The Leningrad Conservatory, together with this school, had been evacuated to Tashkent during the blockade. I auditioned and was accepted.

I was placed in a boarding school, and serious music training began.

My father was a painter. Once in Tashkent, the rector of the Leningrad Conservatory, Professor Serebryakov, saw his work. After the end of the blockade, he suggested that he go to Leningrad to participate in the restoration of the school building. Thus, our family ended up in Leningrad along with the conservatory and music school, and I continued my studies. It was 1944, the war was not over yet, and the living conditions were terrible. Food was sorely lacking, we stood for hours in queues for a tiny piece of bread.

After leaving school, I had to move on and enter the conservatory. The history of my admission was very difficult: they did not want to hire me because the quota on Jews had already been reached. Non-Jews were expected in the dean's office, but they were not among those wishing to enter. I auditioned, got good grades, and had to be enrolled.

After graduating from the conservatory, I went to Yakutsk and worked as concertmaster of a symphony orchestra and taught at a music school.

Where does your family come from?

My mother, Gita Abramovna Goldina, is from Mogilev. Her mother – my grandmother, as I mentioned – was a religious person and prayed every day. But we, unfortunately, did not adopt her Jewish way of life. My father, Isaak Evseevich Vigdorchik, said that during the war he was captured and survived because he could talk with the Germans, because he knew Yiddish.

What do you do in your free time? Do you have any hobbies?

KIDS PARTY I have very little free time, because I have always been busy with work. Musicians love

EAST THORNHILL:

Wednesday, December 1

DONUT FRY-OFF

music and love to work. Together with the orchestra, I have traveled all over the world for concerts, having visited many cities in Canada, America, Europe, China and Japan.

So you can safely say that I love to travel. And even more so for me it was free as an extension of my music career.

If you had the opportunity to meet any historical figure, who would you choose,

and why?

ROCKFORD: I would like to talk with the famous music figure Srul Glich. He was a prominent composer in America and Canada, as well as widely known in the Jewish community.

Wednesday, December 1

KIDS CHANUKAH PARTY

At one time, I wanted to open a music school in Toronto for gifted children. This

DONUT FRY-OFF

I am now 89 years old. My plan for the future is to try to stay healthy and continue to pursue my love of music.

project required serious funding and the participation of officials. Many famous musicians supported me, including the famous Isaac Stern and Srul Glich. I would love to meet him again.

S. RICHMOND HILL & MAPLE: Sunday, December 5 What are your plans for the future? www.jrcc.org/ChanukahParties

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

15

‫ב׳׳ה‬

Exodus Magazine Holiday Companion

Журнал Эксодус, путеводитель по праздникам

CHANUKAH Nov 28 - Dec 6, 2021

Еврейский Центр Русскоязычной Oбщины Онтарио

How to Chanukah list -Holiday to-do

Pre

ake a Menorah s/wicks • Acquire or m dles (44 candleukah) n ca r o s, k ic w oil and of Chan • Stock up on total for the eight nights wax) in are needed ndle (pref. beestotal) ca a e v ha to re h candles , make su • If using oil amash each night (8 shamas ts, to use as a sh Chanukah trea e m so e ak m r o • Plan to buy uts and latkes n o d as ndy such anukah gelt ha Ch d an s el id ra • Have some d

Chanukah is...

Primary Observances: 1. Light the Menorah each night 2. Celebrate and publicize the miracle 3. Spend quality time around the Menorah

What is a Menorah? A Menorah has eight holders for oil or wax candles and an additional holder, set apart from the rest, for the shamash (“attendant”) candle. The Chanukah lights can either be oil or wax candles. Since the miracle of Chanukah happened with olive oil, an oil Menorah is preferable, and olive oil is the ideal fuel.

Cotton wicks are preferred because of the smooth flame they produce. Since the Menorah is a mitzvah article, it is customary to use a beautiful one, though any candles will do as long as they are arranged in a straight row. In addition to the eight spots for the Chanukah candles, there should also be a place for the shamash, the candle that is used to kindle the other lights – which sits a bit higher or lower than the other candles to separate it. There is a tradition to use beeswax candles for the shamash.

Where to light it? Set up the Menorah in a central doorway. Place it on a chair or small table near the doorpost that is opposite the mezuzah. This way, when you pass through the doorway, you are surrounded by two mitzvot – the mezuzah and the menorah. Ideally, the menorah lights should be between 12 and 40 inches off the ground. You can also set up your menorah on a windowsill facing the street, provided that the window is less than thirty feet above ground-level. Make sure the menorah is on a sturdy, fireproof surface that is out of the reach of children and not near curtains or other flammable materials Who should light it? All family members should be present at the time of the nightly menorah lighting. In some families, each person lights their own Menorah.

Children should also be encouraged to light their own Menorahs.

16

Jewish Russian Community Centre of Ontario

Chanukah is an eight-day festival that commemorates the miracles surrounding the rededication of the Holy Temple and the Maccabean Revolt against the oppressive Seleucid Empire in the 2nd Century BCE. It is known as the “festival of light,” and celebrates the idea of illuminating the darkness.

The Chanukah Story On the 25th of Kislev in the year 139 BCE, the Maccabees liberated the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, after defeating the vastly more numerous and powerful armies of the Syrian-Greek king Antiochus IV. (This was the first great miracle of Chanukah.)

The victorious Jews repaired, cleansed and rededicated the Temple to the service of G-d. But all the Temple’s oil had been defiled by the pagan invaders; when the Jews sought to light the Temple’s menorah (candelabra), they found only one small cruse of ritually pure olive oil fit for Temple use. Miraculously, the one-day supply burned for eight days, until new, pure oil could be obtained. (This was the second great miracle of Chanukah.)

For assistance in making your Chanukah plans and for updates about community Chanukah events for families, kids and adults, visit jrcc.org/Chanukah or contact the JRCC.

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

When to light it? It is customary to light the Menorah shortly after sunset.

In some communities, the Menorah is kindled after nightfall (approximately thirty minutes after sunset). Either way, the menorah must contain enough fuel to burn for at least thirty minutes after nightfall. Standard Chanukah candles only last approximately 30 minutes. If using those candles, then you should light after nightfall. On Shabbat, the times are a bit different: Chanukah + Shabbat. Slightly different rules apply when Chanukah coincides with Shabbat. On Friday, we light the Chanukah candles before lighting the Shabbat candles, and we make sure to use longer candles that will burn for at least thirty minutes after dark. On Saturday night, we light the candles after Shabbat is over, after reciting Havdallah.

LIGHTING THE MENORAH 1.

Arrange the lights on the Menorah. On the first night, place one candle on the far right of the Menorah. On the following night, add a second light to the left of the first one, and then add one light each night of Chanukah – moving from right to left.

2. Gather everyone in the house around the Menorah.

3. Light the shamash candle and hold it in your right hand.

(Lefties hold it in your left hand.)

4. While standing, recite the appropriate blessings.

5. Light the candles. Each night, light the newest (left-most) candle first and continue lighting from left to right. (We add lights to the Menorah from right to left, while we light from left to right.)

Sunday, Nov 28 | 24 Kislev | The 1st Night of Chanukah • Place one candle on the right side of the Menorah • Recite all three blessings (see Blessings to the right) • Light the candle Nov 29 - Dec 2 | 25-28 Kislev | Nights 2 – 5 • Place the appropriate number of candles for each night Recite the first two blessings (see Blessings to the right) • Light the candles, starting from the left one Friday, Dec 3 | 29 Kislev | The 6th Night, Chanukah + Shabbat Special pre-Shabbat instructions: • Light the Menorah before sunset, before lighting Shabbat candles • Use enough oil and/or longer lasting candles so they burn for at least 30 minutes after nightfall • Place six candles on the right of the Menorah • Recite the first two blessings (see Blessings to the right) • Light the candles, starting from the left one Saturday, Dec 4 | 30 Kislev | The 7th Night, Chanukah After Shabbat Special post-Shabbat instructions: • Set up and light the Menorah after nightfall, after Shabbat is over (after Havdallah) • Place seven candles on the right of the Menorah • Recite the first two blessings (see Blessings to the right) • Light the candles, starting from the left one Sunday, Dec 5 | 1 Tevet | The 8th and final night of Chanukah • Place eight candles in the Menorah • Recite the first two blessings (see Blessings to the right) • Light the candles, starting from the left one

The Chanukah Blessings The blessings are recited before lighting the Menorah.

The third blessing is recited only on the first night (or the first time lighting the Menorah this Chanukah).

Blessing #1 Ba-ruch A-tah Ado-nai E-lo-hei-nu Melech ha-olam a-sher ki-de-sha-nu bemitz-vo-tav ve-tzi-va-nu le-had-lik ner Cha-nu-kah Blessed are You, Lord our G‑d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the Chanukah light.

Blessing #2 Ba‑ruch A‑tah Ado‑nai E‑lo‑hei‑nu Me‑ lech ha‑olam she‑a‑sa ni‑sim la‑avo‑te‑ nu ba‑ya‑mim ha‑hem bi‑zman ha‑zeh.

Blessed are You, Lord our G‑d, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our forefathers in those days, at this time.

Blessing #3 Recited on the first night only (or the first time lighting the Menorah this Chanukah)

Ba‑ruch A‑tah Ado‑nai E‑lo‑hei‑nu me‑ lech ha‑olam she‑heche‑ya‑nu ve‑ki‑yi‑ ma‑nu ve‑higi‑a‑nu liz‑man ha‑zeh.

Blessed are You, Lord our G‑d, King of the universe, who has granted us life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this occasion.

The Moshiach Connection There are two ways of dealing with darkness. One is to create a place of light so bright and beautiful that all who seek light will be drawn inward. Then there’s the alternative: Go out into the dark and make it shine. Let it shine even to those who aren’t looking for it. To those who don’t know they’re missing it. That’s the strategy of the Chanukah candles, when the darkness gets so vicious that people don’t even know they are in the dark.

That’s when you’ve got to beat darkness on its own territory. The first strategy will bring in those who are lost in the dark, but are looking for some light. With the Chanukah strategy, you can grab those who take an active part in that darkness, turn them around, and enlist them to the side of light. Now that’s the ultimate bearer of light — someone who takes everything he learned from the darkness and makes it shine bright. Very bright.

As it turns out, the Chanukah Menorah is the ultimate strategy for subverting darkness — just what we need today in order to bring Moshiach.

© 2021 Exodus Magazine, a project of Jewish Russian Community Center of Ontario.

416.222.7105 | jrcc@jrcc.org | www.jrcc.org. For more holiday information and content visit jrcc.org/Holidays.

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

17

SHARE THE JOY! the ex odus ma g azine s im cha sectio n

MAZEL TOV!

IT’S A BOY!

to

Isroel Levi Artemov

Rabbi Yoseph & Mrs. Chiena Zaltzman

Moishe Yehuda Blau Oliver-Zain Fridman Ido Moshe Shakarov Mataev – baby boy

On the birth of their grandson

Dominik Ikonnikov Elazar Landa

IT’S A GIRL!

and to

Sophia Laya Krist

Rabbi Baruch and Mrs. Bracha Landa

Milana Moskalenko Mayan Zipori

MARRIAGE! Levi Muskal & Chaya Drookman

On the birth of their son Elazar Landa

Yonatan & Avigal Malaev Yonah Elharar & Rochelle Tenenbaum

UPSHERNISH! Menny Neft

Wishing you much health, happiness and nachas, from the rabbis of the JRCC Rabbi Yoseph Y. Zaltzman (Senior Rabbi) Rabbi Avrohom Yusewitz, Rabbi Avrohom Zaltzman, Rabbi Avraham Weinstein, Rabbi Chaim Hildeshaim, Rabbi Levi Jacobson, Rabbi Mendel Zaltzman, Rabbi Levi Blau, Rabbi Shmuel Neft, Rabbi David Davidov, Rabbi Yisroel Zaltzman

May it be G-d’s will that he be raised and enabled to attain Torah, marriage and good deeds amidst prosperity.

With best wishes, the JRCC Rabbi & Staff

BAR MITZVAH CLUB Discover what Bar Mitzvah is all about. Learn to read the Torah, and love it too! Bar mitzvah preparation and so much more...

BAT MITZVAH CLUB

Don’t just celebrate a Bat Mitzvah, become one! Learn what it means to be a Bat Mitzvah Woman in the modern world.

For more information and to register call 416-222-7105 or visit www.jrcc.org

18

Celebrate your Jewish birthday!

To learn more on when and how to celebrate your Jewish birthday visit

www.jrcc.org/birthday

NAMES LISTED ABOVE AND ADS IN THIS MAZEL TOV PAGE ARE NO PROOF OF JEWISH IDENTITY

Aspirals Gymnastics Centre Classes TOTS 2 TEENS Gymnastics Recreational & Competitive Dance Acrobatics Classes for Orthodox Jewish Girls

Happy Holidays!

Concord 905-760-0092 www.aspirals.ca

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

first person

Pyat! The Miracle

on the

Fifth Night

Yerachmiel Tilles

F

or being a Jew and wanting to live like one, Reb Asher Sossonkin, a devoted Lubavitcher chassid, was sentenced to ten years’ imprisonment in a Siberian labor camp.

There, he and other “political” prisoners lived, cut off from the outside world, in the harshest conditions, together with prisoners who were fearsome criminals.

One day Reb Asher was approached by another prisoner, who asked him about his observance of Shabbat, which had become somewhat of a legend in the camp. This Jew, whose name was Nachman Rozman, was born into a traditional family, but at an early age abandoned Judaism and became a staunch communist. Now he decided that he also wanted to observe Shabbat.

Reb Asher encouraged him, but with fear and trepidation, for disobedience of camp regulations was punished severely—and observing Shabbat was clearly prohibited. Rozman, however, would not be discouraged. He began to staunchly observe the Shabbat using ruses which were sometimes successful, and often not.

Once, another Jew said to him, “You can’t copy Sossonkin! Why, he doesn’t even eat nonkosher food, but you eat anything!”

When he heard this unfamiliar idea, Nachman came to Reb Asher to find out what was this “kosher” food. Reb Asher explained to him that Jews eat only animals which are designated in the Torah as kosher, and then, only when they are slaughtered in a prescribed manner.

From then on, Nachman resolved to eat only kosher, too. To think that this scenario was being played out in the grim setting of a Soviet labor camp, where a scrap of meat was a coveted delicacy, is almost unbelievable, and yet it happened.

How did this totally assimilated Jew find the strength of character to maintain his beliefs?

He had served in the army and attained a high rank, but nevertheless he was sentenced to fifteen years at hard labor for his crime. Now, in the camp, he resolved to return to Judaism.

After a day of ceaseless labor, he would come to Reb Asher to discuss Torah and to learn how to perform mitzvahs. He longed to learn how to pray from a real prayerbook, but alas, there were none in the camp. Reb Asher transcribed the Hebrew prayers phonetically into Russian for the man, and his joy was

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

boundless. Thereafter, he recited the prayers with great happiness and devotion every day.

The friendship between the two men was a true blessing, giving each of them someone with whom to share their pain, and even to find a bit of joy in observing Torah together.

When Chanukah approached, Reb Asher taught his friend the story of the festival. Reb Asher suggested that they find some discarded sardine cans in the kitchen and try to construct some kind of menorah from them, but his friend wouldn’t hear of it. “How can we celebrate such a great festival using old cans? I have a friend who is a tinsmith, and for a few rubles, I’m sure he’ll make us a Chanukah menorah!”

Reb Asher was uneasy lest their plan become known, but seeing his friend’s enthusiasm, he didn’t have the heart to discourage him.

When Chanukah arrived, the shining tin menorah was completed. They set it up in a small room adjacent to their barracks and lit it each night, reciting the blessings in front of Jews and gentiles alike. All seemed to bask in its light and take courage from the Chanukah story, which Reb Asher would tell every night.

But, unfortunately, every group has a troublemaker, and the peace of the Chanukah lights wasn’t to last. On the fifth night, as they were about to light the menorah, a man in a warden’s uniform walked into the room to take roll call. This was a departure from the usual schedule, for ordinarily after ten at night the prisoners were free to do as they wished. For some reason, on this night, they had to line up and be counted.

As the names were being called out, one of the prisoners whispered to Reb Asher that he

had been informed on, and the roll call was just a pretense to arrest him. The rule against practicing religion in the camp was matched by an equally severe prohibition against lighting a fire anywhere in the camp buildings. All the buildings were constructed of wood, and it was feared that they could easily go up in flames.

“While he’s reading the roll, run and throw the candles in the snow. Then you can say you don’t know anything about it,” suggested the man to Reb Asher. But Reb Asher could not bear to do that to the holy lights which he had worked so hard to obtain, and which he had lit with such sacrifice these five nights!

The roll call seemed to go on interminably.

When the warden came to Reb Asher’s name, he paused, and stared at the lights in the menorah. Then he called out, “P’yat?” (Five?)

“P’yat!” Reb Asher replied in a loud voice.

The warden then continued calling out the rest of the names as if nothing unusual had happened.

The prisoners were shocked. Not only had Reb Asher lit a prohibited fire, but to compound the crime, it was a “religious” fire. No one could conceive how two obviously Jewish men had lit a menorah for five nights of Chanukah, and now, when they were discovered, nothing happened! This was truly a Chanukah miracle!

Reb Asher never understood what happened that night. Who was that warden? Why had he mentioned the number of candles? Was he a fellow Jew who was drawn to the sight of a menorah? Was he Elijah the prophet? The Chanukah miracle remained a mystery to the end of Reb Asher’s life. May his memory be blessed. EM

19

life on earth

No Megillah

on

Chanukah?

Tzvi Freeman

H

ere’s an interesting difference between Chanukah and Purim: Both holidays have a small scroll—called a megillah—that tells their story. Purim has the Megillah of Esther. Chanukah has the Megillah of Antiochus.

On Purim, we are required to read that megillah publicly at night, and again in the day.

But on Chanukah, there’s no such requirement.

Yes, there have been communities that read the Megillah of Antiochus in the synagogue on Chanukah. Indeed, some Yemenite communities still keep this custom. But it’s done without a blessing, since all agree that it was never instituted by any rabbinical authority.

Another distinction between these two megillahs: The Talmud tells that Esther requested from the Men of the Great Assembly, which included prophets together with sages, that they “write my story for all generations.”

And indeed, the Megillah of Esther was inducted into the exclusive set of twenty-four books of Tanach.

The Megillah of Antiochus, on the other hand, is not considered a sacred work. Rav Saadia Gaon, the foremost authority for Jews in the 10th century, held it in high esteem. He wrote that the Hasmoneans, Judah, Shimon, Johanan, Jonathan, and Eliezer, sons of Mattathias, wrote this megillah about their own experiences, and similar to the book of Daniel, they wrote it in the language of the Chaldeans (Aramaic). He translated it into Arabic along with his translations of other books of Tanach. Nevertheless, it was never inducted into Tanach, as was the Megillah of Esther.

The distinction gets yet sharper when we consider the names of these two megillahs. The Megillah of Esther is named after the heroine of the story. The Megillah of Antiochus is named after the villain!

None of this is coincidental. Something is going on over here that represents a deep distinction between the dynamics of Purim and Chanukah.

The stories of both Purim and Chanukah are about taking a real dark situation and turning it around for the good. But there are two ways of effecting this transformation.

In the story of Purim, the royal decree to eliminate the Jewish population was

20

transformed into royal support for a Jewish victory over those that desired their elimination.

The house of Haman became the house of Mordechai.

In the story of Chanukah, the dictatorship of a foreign, insane megalomaniac who forbade Jewish practice and demanded he be worshipped led to the liberation of the Temple in Jerusalem and a miracle of light.

Yet, while Purim pulls inward, Chanukah radiates light outward.

On Purim, the Megillah of Esther is read in the synagogue. The Purim feast and exchange of foodstuffs, as well as the gifts to the poor, is done principally within the Jewish home.

So it makes sense that the story of Haman and King Achashverosh is also pulled inward, to become a sacred book of Torah named after a righteous Jewish heroine, and read each year by decree of the sages. The telling of the machinations and greed of these villains becomes a mitzvah, just as the house of Haman became the house of Mordechai. Pulled into the Torah and declared a mitzvah, they are transformed.

The miracle of Chanukah, on the other hand, is about shining light outward, and to the outside. The original requirements for the Chanukah menorah stipulate that it be lit only once it is dark. And where? “At the door of your house, on the outside.” Why? As the Talmud states, “to publicize the miracle.”

Who are we publicizing it to? That becomes obvious from another requirement: Until when can you light it? Until the marketplace is quiet. Until all the stragglers have gone home, including, the Talmud says, the Tarmodai.

Who are the Tarmodai? Merchants from the

Syrian city of Tarmod (a.k.a. Tadmur, a.k.a.

Palmyra) who were known for staying late in the market at night, collecting leftover wood.

They were also known for having rebelled against King Solomon, and for having acted as mercenaries in the destruction of both Temples.

And it’s with these people that we measure the ultimate darkness that Chanukah can reach!

Which means: The celebration of Chanukah is meant to reach all those people out there as they are out there. Where Purim deals with the dark characters of this world by transforming them into players in a holy book of Torah, the light of Chanukah reaches into the thick darkness of night, as darkness remains darkness, outside of the holiness of Torah, and shines even there. Nothing is excluded, and nothing is changed.

That’s why we absorb the message of Purim by being pulled into the words of a megillah, while the message of Chanukah is broadcast out there by shining the light of a menorah.

Even the megillah for Chanukah remains an outsider. It’s named after the enemy, written entirely in Aramaic, and remains in a realm the sages of Israel called “outside writings”— meaning, outside the realm of the sacred works of Tanach. And so, of course, reading it is not a mitzvah—just a permitted act.

What is the point behind all this “outsideness?”

Because this light is the light of divine wisdom, for which there is no “outside.”

As the Baal Shem Tov taught, “G‑dliness is everything. Everything is G‑dliness.” We just need light to see it there.

And there is no better light for that than Chanukah light. EM

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

There is a better way to get heard

AUTO & VEHICLE

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Mazda of Toronto - page 22

OUR COMMUNITY

Buthurst Drug Mart - page 18 Dentistry in Oak Ridges - page 21 Hearing Solutions - page 22 Massage Therapy - page 22

FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES

Finance & Tax Insurance - page 22 Gloria Kats - page 22 Lawyers- page 27 Leon Levin - page 21 Tatyana Subbotina - page 22

Erin O’Toole - page 2

REAL ESTATE & BROKER

Michael Basin - page 22 Rachel Saltsov - page 21 Tanya Gotsulsky - page 22

HOME & OFFICE

Air Point - page 22 The European Furniture - page 23

FUNERAL & MEMORIALS

RESTAURANTS & GROCERIES Chocolate Charm - page 18 Fiera Foods - page 2 No Frills - page 3 Tov-Li - page 18

JOBS & SERVICES

Steeles Memorial Chapel - page 24 Stone Craft Monuments - page 22

Fiera Foods Job - page 27 The Israeli Network - page 25

SCHOOL

Aspirals Gymnastics - page 18 My many years of experience, knowledge, and professionalism help you make one of the most important buys of your life.

Family and cosmetic dentistry, with a specialty in implant dentistry, performed in a state-of-the-art environment.

13291 Yonge Street Suite #102 Richmond Hill, Ontario

P: 905-773-3306 • F: 905-773-1722

Committed to Excellence!

Since 1986 Happy Holidays!

416-929-4343 - Office 416-877-6367 - Cell

Leon Levine

15 years in business, Member of the Paralegal Society of Ontario (PSO), Traffic Court Division

PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION TRAFFIC TICKET SOLUTION

• Careless driving • Speeding • Driving under suspension HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO THE ENTIRE JEWISH COMMUNITY!

CRIMINAL LAW

• Assault/harassment • Domestic assault SMALL CLAIM COURT

Tel (416) 225-5200, Cell (416) 5690559 1000 Finch Ave. West #305, North York, On. M3J2V5 Fax (416) 225-6700, E-mail: llevine@canada.com

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

21

416.787.4256 MICHAEL

Работаем с деньгами - Думаем о людях Mortgages:

■ COMMERCIAL

Gloria Kats

Mortgage Agent Nothwood Mortgage Ltd. Broker Lic.#10349

■ NEW IMMIGRANTS

Bus: (416) 640-2600 Fax: (416) 640-2601 Cell: (416) 294-4469

5799 Yonge St., Suite #1107 North York, ON M2M 3V3

Michael Basin

MASSAGE THERAPY IN YOUR HOME AT A CONVENIENT TIME FOR YOU!

FINANCIAL PLANNING AT EVERY STAGE OF YOUR LIFE: Life Insurance, Investments, Medical Insurance, Children’s Education Plans, Retirement Savings Plans, Mortgages.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR EXTENDED HEALTH BENEFITS

Happy over 31 years holidays! in business!

24

Right at home Investments Group Direct Phone 647-298-7095 • Office 647-288-9422

HOURS

DESIGN OF MONUMENTS ENGRAVING CEMETERY

Mila Gurfinkel

CASH BUYER LOOKING FOR 3 BEDROOM CONDO

Sales Representative,

500 AVENUE Great condominium 1400 sq. feet

LETTERING PORTRAITS ON STONE

Top producer, Top ten club (905)764-7200/24 Hour PagerALL • Cell: (416) 219-9758 MONUMENT SIZES

7440 BATHURST Fully renovated, coming soon.

CASH BUYERS ON LARGE CONDOS IN ANY CONDITION. (BROKERS PROTECTED)

■ HVAC equipment installation BATHURST/STEELES

and maintenance LUXURY PRIMROSE ■ Financing and rebates are Approx 1400 sq. f., 2 exits to balcony, 2 bdrm, 2 available wshr, All windows panoramic, window in ktchn & breakfast area, steps from shops and TTC 905 597 4933 ● 416 893 4933 airpoint.ca ASKED PRICE: $268,800 COMMITTED TO YOUR COMFORT

FRIDAY HARBOUR RESORT SPECIALIST

https://www.fridayharbour.com FLEXIBLE commission.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

We’re looking for volunteers to help with distribution of High Holidays packages and birthday cakes.

Get your community hours.

grants

BATHURST/CENTRE

Luxury new condo, 2bdr + den, 2 wshr, 9 f. ceilings, gorgeous crown moldings, great amenities. $265,000

BATHURST/CENTRE

New luxury condo, 1bdr + balcony, granite in 80 Martin Ross Ave ktchn, Laminate floors throughout, Locker, Toronto, ON M3J 121 Brisbane Rd., 2L4 Unit 1 great amenities.

Downsview, ON M3J 2K3 (416) 667-1474 $179,000 (416) 667-1474

RENT BATHURST/CENTRE

BATHURST/CENTRE

Luxury new condo, 2 bdr, 2 wshrm, over 1000 sq.f. great amenities, close to good schools and Transit. $1500

Hear what matters

Luxury Penthouse, 3 bdrm, 2 wshrm, 9 ft ceilings, many upgrades, granite, pot lights, blinds, MUST SEE. Luxury Complex with amazing amenities. $599,000

this Chanukah!

CONTACT: Elizabeth.chernokov@jrcc.org or 416.222.7105 x291

The largest Mazda dealer in Toronto

Rana Khan

General Sales Manager

416.642.7777 6167 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M2M 3X2

ALL JEWISH CEMETERIES TOP 2% SOLDFOR UNITS IN GTA at $750) (starting

Turn to the exports

NEED MORE SELLERS - IF I DON’T SELL IN 3 WEEKS, MY SERVICE IS FREE

w w w. m a z d a o f t o r o n t o . c o m 22

F.T.I.C

Happy New Year!

Heating Cooling

SPECIAL OFFERS ON PRE-CONSTRACTIONS

connect

Tel: (416) 640-2600 Visit our website: Cell: (416) 697-9979 www.ftic.ca Cell: (416) 704-1375 info@ftic.ca

416.886.4963

■ SELF-EMPLOYED

gsaprikin@northwoodmortgages.com H.O 7676 Woodbine Ave., Suite 300, Markham, ON L3R2N2

cares

Greg Nilevsky M.A., M.D.R.T Margaret Nilevsky M.A., C.L.U.

■ FIRST-TIME BUYERS

■ CONSTRUCTION ■ NON RESIDENT ■ REFINANCE

FINANCE & TAX INSURANCE Co-ordinators 5799 Steeles Yonge St., Unit West, 1107, 1600 Avenue Toronto, Suite 304ON Concord, ON L4K 4M2

Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

LOW RATES ON THE MARKET ■ 1st and 2nd

Happy New Year!

SAVE UP TO 30%

on a new pair of hearing aids*

BOOK YOUR FREE HEARING TEST

Lawrence Plaza (888) 620-8092 960 Lawrence Ave AT DUFFERIN ST (888) 539-4045 Centrepoint Mall (888) 640-7652 Humber River Hospital (888) 479-1204 FOR A FULL LIST OF LOCATIONS, AND MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT

HearingSolutions.ca

*See clinic for details.

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

The EUROPEAN FURNITURE Our qualified sales staff will help you select the style of furniture that suits your taste, lifestyle and decorative needs.

Our store features a wide selection of fine European furniture and the best furniture around the world.

Contact us: 416-736-7558

Visit us: 4699 Keele St, Toronto, ON M3J 2N8 (1 Block South of Steeles) Open daily 10 am to 8 pm

Наши квалифицированные продавцы помогут вам правильно подобрать мебель, со вкусом полностью обставить ваш дом. Большой выбор европейской мебели и гарнитуров лучших дизайнеров.

Visit www.TheEuropeanFurniture.ca

JEWISH IDENTITY GRANTS

Teffilin, Mezuzah, Kosher, Sheitel and Jewish Education grants available for members of the Jewish-Russian community.

For eligibility requirments, information and to apply

www.JRCC.org/JIG

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

23

Sponsored by:

350 Ste­e­les Ave. West, Thornhill (416) 733-2000 • (905) 881-6003 • www.steeles.org

Our Deepest Sympathies to the families of: Abramov Boris Beniamin Avrasin Svetlana Bednarskaya Svetlana Tzofia Berger Gershon Broit Janna Yanna Catz Alejandro Zunia Danilov Benyamin Dozortsev Raya Rakhil Dr. Kramer Yehudah Dubrovsky Vladimir Edelchtein Efim Elizarov Simo Shimon Fayer Shaya Fridman Yosef Gilzenrod Tauba Ginipel Kalman Gruzman Ilya Israil Kacherovskaia Raisa Rochel Katkova Betya Katz Maria Khazina Zisla Lantsman Valentina Levin Mark Lischinski Vera Matrosov Izabella Milkis Marianna Miloslavskaia Victoria Minasian Zhana Jenia Mintz Moshe Mospan Lior Nemtzov Ida Nogit Dveira Pantchevsky George Popik Albert Avraham Rudky Michael Moshe Shtemberg Yuri Vatmahter Iuri Vaynshtok Marina From the rabbis of the Jewish Russian Community Centre Rabbi Yoseph Y. Zaltzman (Senior Rabbi) Rabbi Avrohom Yusewitz Rabbi Avrohom Zaltzman Rabbi Avraham Weinstein Rabbi Chaim Hildeshaim Rabbi Levi Jacobson For all your Rabbi family Mendel bereavement needs (funeral, Zaltzman unveiling, kaddish services, shiva, yahrzeit and Rabbi Levi Blau memorial plaques) the JRCC rabbis are here to Rabbi Shmuel Neft assist you, 24 hours a day. Services available Rabbi David Davidov in Russian, Hebrew, English and Yiddish.

Rabbi Yisroel Zaltzman 416.222.7105 x221

24

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

Sponsored by:

memorials

350 Ste­e­les Ave. West, Thornhill (416) 733-2000 • (905) 881-6003 • www.steeles.org

With deep sorrow and heavy hearts we mourn the passing of a loving husband, amazing father and cherished grandfather. His unconditional love, kindness and smile will live forever in our hearts.

Thank you to family and friends for their support during this difficult time.

Wife Lilly, children Flora and Natan, Svetlana and Vadim, and grandchildren Martin, Alan, Monica, Elliot, Brittany and Joshua

FILIPP KOVALIK

YOU

BOOK CONDOLENCE ADS IN EXODUS MAGAZINE

CAN

Contact at: 416-222-7105 #222 or exodus@jrcc.org

HELP ●

Death Announcements ● Death Anniversaries ● Tribute Ads ● Remembrance Ads

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

The word for “charity” in Hebrew actually means “justice,” for giving is not seen as an exceptional favour to the needy but a matter of simple justice: it is the just thing to do. The act of tzedakah brings so much positive energy into the world that it is equal to all other mitzvoth and brings the redemption closer.

For charity box pickup or drop off call 416-222-7105 or email jrcc@jrcc.org

25

S ubscription

for

E xodus

magazine

Fill out the form below and mail it in or order online at www.exodusmagazine.org.

Mail to: Exodus Magazine, 5987 Bathurst St., #3, Toronto, ON M2R 1Z3 Canada.

Subscription Type (choose one): q Canadian subscription — $18 per year q US/International subscription — $36 US per year Mailing Address: Name: ___________________________________________ Address: _______________________ Postal Code: ______ Tel: ____________________ E-mail: __________________ Gift Subscription: q I am purchasing this subscription as a gift for: Name: ___________________________________________ Address: _______________________ Postal Code: ______ Tel: ____________________ E-mail: __________________ Sponsorships: q I would like to be an Exodus Sponsor: Amount: $_________ (Sponsorships are tax deductible) Payment Method (select one): q Cheque — payable to JRCC Exodus Magazine q Bill me q Credit card:

Card Number: _______________ Expiry: _______

Signature: ______________ Date: _________

Now a days this company with more than 118 years of history holds a leading position among the manufacturers of alcoholic beverages in Moldova. Unique climate, fertile soil, hilly terrain and vicinity of the river Dniester created most favorable conditions for growing best grapes; modern equipment, advanced technologies, original recipes, respect to ancient traditions and passionate work of KVINT professionals – all these factors allow to produce admirable beverages, which compete with world renowned brands.

Locals consider KVINT a national treasure and a symbol of their country.

Its factory is shown on the 5 Transnistrian ruble banknote.

Kvint distillery is the oldest enterprise still in operation from 1897 in the region. KVINT is one of Transnistria's largest exporters, to Italy and China as well as Russia and Ukraine; its brandy has gone to the Vatican and into space.

Kvint XO brandy was first produced by the Tiraspol Wine & Cognac Distillery KVINT in 1967 as a dedication to the jubilee of the October Revolution. It is made from the premium quality “eaux-de-vie” spirits seasoned in oak barrels not less than 20 years according to classical “French methode”.

KVINT (acronym for Kon’iaki, vina i napitki Tiraspol’ia ("divins, wines, and beverages of Tiraspol") is a winery and distillery based in Tiraspol, the administrative center of Transnistria. Even though it underwent through many difficulties, being twice destroyed by

26

wars, becoming a part of prohibition law in the 80s, the company is now an important economic player in a region, producing more than 20 million bottles of alcoholic beverages per year.

Although the distillery's roster includes an assortment of wines, gins, and vodkas, by far the most famous of its products are its award-winning brandies. Like all top-notch spirits, the high quality of this liquor begins with the region's grapes. Occupying the land east of the River Dniester, Transnistria is in the heart of the ancient Bessarabian wine region, a gem of viniculture perched above the Black Sea that has also survived the many ups and downs of centuries of Russian rule.

Plucked from the Bessarabian vine, the grapes fortunate enough to make their way to Tiraspol are transformed into brandy using a process identical to that used to make Cognac in France—double distilled in copper pots, aged in oak barrels, and then carefully blended with water and sugar. The grapes are of a typical Cognac variety, an assortment that includes Colombard, Riesling, and Ugni Blanc. Despite the company's rigid adherence to the French production methods, Kvint is not located in Cognac, France and therefore cannot formally call their products "Cognacs." Instead they use the Moldovan word divin, hence Kvint's name, which is an acronym for the Russian phrase "divins, wines, and beverages of Tiraspol." But in a land where international laws don't seem to really apply, most local people still refer to Kvint's products as Cognacs, and it is called Brandy everywhere else in the world.

Also Kvint is focusing their efforts on making a wide assortment of wines. Along with ordinary table dry, semi-sweet and dessert wines, the KVINT’s portfolio can boast of some excellent varietal and blended wines matured in oak barriques, according to traditional production process from 9 months to 3 years.

Shop for the best selection of Kvint Wine : KVINT CABERNET SAUVIGNON KOSHER 2015, LCBO #455138 This wine is made under control of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of New York (USA), OU, it has the status of Kosher for PASSOVER, Mevushal (approved for Passover, pasteurized). This wine is made from the selected grapes grown in own vineyards of KVINT. It features pleasant astringency and harmonious acidity. Its bouquet is complex with aroma of nightshade berries enriched with hints of morocco leather.

KVINT MERLOT KOSHER 2015, LCBO # 455112 Bright berry aromas: hints of cassis, and delicate nuances of prunes and cherry.

It is velvety on the palate, with barely perceptible astringency and freshness.

BRANDY KVINT KOSHER and DIVIN KVINT KOSHER FOR PASSOVER are now available at LCBO stores, Vintage # 577817 and # 540039.

It is made under control of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of New York (USA), OU, it has the status of Kosher for Passover (approved for Passover).

It is made by special production process with eauxde-vie and wine-distilled spirits aged in oak barrels not less than a year. It features fine golden color, harmonious taste and bright floral aroma with light tones of maturity.

December 2021 / Tevet 5782

FIERA FOODS COMPANY IS HIRING! As one of North America’s largest, privately-owned large-scale bakeries, Fiera Foods Company and affiliated companies has an incredible history of expansion, innovation and quality over the past 30 years.

We’re looking for outstanding people to join our outstanding team.

• Production (Mixers, Scalers, Oven Operators, Production Line Operators,

General Production Staff, Forklift Operators, Shipper/Receivers); • Skilled Trades (Electricians, Mechanics, Refrigeration Mechanics, PLC Technicians) • Sales (Canada and US); • Management (Lead hand, Supervisory, Management, Project Engineers)

Our commitment to quality, excellence, and responsiveness are critical to our team and our success. Superior communication, teamwork and attention to detail are expected of everyone.

Please submit your resume and your compensation expectations to jobs@fierafoods.com or call (416) 746 1010 (ext. 258).

We thank all in advance for their interest, however only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

T U E S D AY , JANUARY 11 8:00PM JR

CC East Thorn hill, 7608 Yonge S t. Unit 3

Yud Shevat EVENT

Commemorating the anniversary of the Rebbe’s leadership

THE REBBE & MOSHIACH The most astonishing Ideas the Rebbe left us with

With guest speaker

Rabbi Reuven Wolf

Director of Maayon Yisroel Chassidic Center Los Angeles CA

Tickets: $25 in advance/$30 at the door $225 for table of 10 Rabbi Reuven Wolf is a world renowned educator and lecturer who has devoted his life to reaching out and rekindling the spirit of Judaism in his fellow Jews.

Address correction requested

PM 40062996

www.jrcc.org/10Shevat