For some it is not obvious, but the pressure of society and the world’s system today is leading us into a situation similar to that of the Maccabees.
These days we celebrate Hanukkah — a Feast that primarily commemorates the victory that Yehovah gave to our ancestors when the Greek armies invaded Judea and sought to eliminate every trace of the Torah and its influence in the people of Israel. They defiled the Temple and forced the people to abdicate their obedience to the Torah.
But one family — the family of Sh’món the Maccabee — stood up and led a small army that defeated the enormous military machine of the Greeks. They then carried out the re-dedication of the Temple, cleansing it of all contamination. It was established that future generations would annually remember all these events.
It is worth clarifying that there is a legend about the miraculous multiplication of oil that kept the Temple’s menorah burning after its purification in that time of old — a story that gave rise to the tradition of lighting a nine-branched candelabrum called the hanukkiah. According to the rabbis, a sequence invented by them must be followed to light the candles each day, with certain prayers recited at each appointed time.
Unfortunately, this tradition has displaced the true reason for the celebration — which should be the valor, decision, commitment, bravery, and total dependence on Yehovah demonstrated by the Maccabees in order to overcome the enemies who threatened their freedom and their beliefs.
What About Yeshua?
Yeshua participated in this Feast of Dedication, as we are told in the Gospel according to John. But when we ignore the connection of this festival with the history of the Maccabees, we completely lose the sense of responsibility and commitment that Yeshua had toward His culture and the traditions of His people.
So It’s Worth Asking… Are We in Similar Conditions Today?
For some it may not be evident, but the pressure of society and the world’s system is indeed pushing us into similar situations.
When faced with such pressures, we can take one of three positions:
- Openly transgress the Torah, with a defiant attitude, claiming that these Instructions do not concern me.
- Ignore the Torah and its demands, thinking perhaps it is no longer relevant today or that obedience to it is too fanatical.
- Take a stand for the obedience that is fitting for a child of Yehovah, acting as the Maccabees did.
These are times that test our convictions; the pressure will increase, and we will be forced to assume one of these three positions.
You… what will you do?