* Translated by Janine Muller Sherr
1) Here’s a “scoop” for you: Chanukah isn’t over yet! From the lighting of the eighth candle last night until tonight (Monday night), we celebrate the eighth day of Chanukah, known as “Zot Chanukah.” As the most exalted and important day of Chanukah, it is a day designated for prayer.
2) Why is the last day of Chanukah called “Zot Chanukah”? It is because today’s Torah portion begins with the words: “Zot Chanukat HaMizbeach—This was the dedication offering for the altar…”
3) This special day may be considered the “Neilah” (closing prayer) of Chanukah, the day on which the verdict is decided for the entire period that began with Rosh Chodesh Elul, continued through the days of Selichot, Rosh Hashanah, the Ten Days of Repentance, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, the months of Cheshvan and Kislev, and ended today. Some say that this is the time to pray that we should be able to distinguish between light and darkness, good and evil.
4) There are some Chasidic groups that host a “tisch” today with its own special niggunim (melodies) and foods, while other families hold a festive meal (and not only because the kids are going back to school tomorrow!) Some people have the custom of burning the wicks of the Chanukah candles, instead of throwing them in the trash, as a farewell gesture to the Menorah. Others save these wicks until the burning of the Chametz on Erev Pesach, thus linking the two holidays.
5) It is said that those who did not complete the teshuva process during the Ten Days of Repentance still have a chance to do so on “Zot Chanukah.” There are even people who wish one another “Gmar Chatima Tova.”
May you have a joyful Zot Chanukah and may all our prayers be answered!
