Reminders of a miracle

By JUDY STARK
© St. Petersburg Times,
published December 1, 2001

Hanukkah, the Jewish Feast of Lights, begins at sundown Dec. 9.

The eight nights of Hanukkah commemorate a centuries-old victory over oppression. Nearly 2,200 years ago, the Jews, led by Judah Maccabee, revolted against the Syrian-Greek persecutors who had defiled the Temple in Jerusalem. The Greeks were stronger and more numerous, but the Jews prevailed. Upon retaking the Temple, the Jews discovered only one jar of oil that remained undefiled, enough to burn for just one night. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight nights, giving the Jews time to acquire a new supply of sacramental oil.

In commemoration, Jews around the world light candles each of the eight nights of Hanukkah, using multibranched candleholders called menorahs. The menorahs pictured here are religious objects, of course, but they are also dramatic works of original art or attractive accessories worthy of use and display in homes year-round.

Hanukkah celebrates both a military victory and a miracle of faith: perseverance in the face of adversity, light over darkness.

This year we all need that light.

-- JUDY STARK, Times Homes Editor

Make this menorah out of items you'll find at Lowe's. The base is a piece of half-inch craft board (item No. 50245), 2 inches by 18. Prime it, then paint with Rust-Oleum silver spray paint. Let it dry thoroughly. Evenly space nine 3/4-inch rigid conduits (from the electrical department; item No. 76030) across the board and attach with Liquid Nails.

A handmade metal menorah with a powder finish by artist Lynn Rae Lowe is a celebration of life. It's $345 at Shapiro Studio & Gallery, St. Petersburg.

This crystal menorah, called the Menorah of Light, reflects the majestic panorama of the landscape of Israel and the use of Jerusalem stone, an ancient material found in many of Jerusalem's buildings. The Menorah of Light retails for $1,495.

Hanukkah cards show sterling silver "Menorah: Bars and Windows" by Aimee Golant of San Francisco. Box of 10 is $12.95 at the Florida Holocaust Museum, St. Petersburg.

This nickel-plated menorah is 14 inches long and made in India. At Bed, Bath & Beyond; $14.99.

The twin towers of the World Trade Center are still part of the New York City skyline in this menorah: $65 from The Source for Everything Jewish; call toll-free 1-800-426-2567 or visit www.jewishsource.com.

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