Eight

On the eighth day of Sukot, Hamas massacred Jews.

On the eighth night of Chanukah, we kindle eight lights. To push away the darkness.

Seven is regular. There are seven days in the week. Eight is beyond the regular.

Eight symbolizes Redemption with Moshiach.

It will be a time when there will be much light, enabling the entire world to see G-dliness everywhere, in everything. And all nations will serve G-d together.

A time when our souls will shine and illuminate the world. “The light of G-d is the human soul.” (Proverbs 20; 27)

A time when the dead will rise. And, with unlimited happiness, we will transcend limitations.

An extraordinary time of peace for all mankind.

These days, as Israel shines, miraculously defeating its enemies, standing up to the world as an example of morality, we feel that we are witnessing extraordinary times. Perhaps the Redemption, when the Jewish people will be accepted and honoured by all nations, is very close.

As a new administration is about to take over in the U.S., an administration that is warning Hamas to free the hostages, an administration that seems ready to clamp down on Iran, the future looks bright.

A future in which the Jewish nation influences world powers to eradicate evil. A future in which G-d’s presence and authority is acknowledged. A future in which mankind can finally look forward to peace and prosperity, as nations “serve G-d with one shoulder” (Zephaniah 3; 9), thus opening wide channels to receive G-d’s blessings.

A future when Redemption with Moshiach will illuminate the world, when the menorah in the third and eternal Temple will shine forth forever.

May it happen very soon.