If you think your room is a mess, you should have seen the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In 165 B.C.E., the Maccabees returned there after claiming victory over King Antiochus and the Syrian Greeks. They found the altar polluted, the holy vessels desecrated, and barely enough olive oil to light the menorah. Judah Maccabee ordered that the Temple be cleansed and rededicated; hence, we instituted the holiday of Hanukkah, which means "dedication." Although the Holy Temple is no more, the tradition to rededicate ourselves for the better continues. This Hanukkah, BABAGANEWZ challenges you to look no farther than the four walls of your bedroom-and rededicate yourself to Jewish values. Here's how:
- Open your heart to hesed (kindness). At the darkest time of year, we light Hanukkah candles, adding one each night. How can you add some light to the world? Weed through the clothes in your closet or dresser, find the ones you've outgrown or never wear, and give them to the needy. Most communities have groups or nonprofit resale shops that take gently used clothing donations
- Practice bal tashchit (avoiding waste). The Maccabees kindled one cruse of oil, which lasted for eight days. Today, you can save energy (and your family's money) by using compact fluorescents, which last ten times longer than regular bulbs. Replace one conventional light bulb in your room with a compact fluorescent.
- Honor shalshelet hamesorah (the chain of tradition). The Maccabees refused to succumb to Hellenism and instead upheld their cherished traditions. Craft some trendy bookends to hold up your Tanakh, Siddur, and other Jewish books.
- Remember to give hakarat hatov (appreciation). On the Hanukkah menorah, the shamash kindles the other candles. Some people have the gift of helping us shine, even at life's darkest moments. Find a special place to hang a picture of a family member, teacher, or friend who has helped you keep your candle burning.
- Fill your room with kedushah (holiness). The Hebrew letters in the name Maccabee, mem, khaf, bet, and yud, were said to stand for the phrase mi khamokha b'eilim Hashem (who is like You, God?). The acronym reminded the Maccabees to focus on God, even during battle. A mezuzah on your bedroom door post reminds you of God's presence in your room. Create a new mezuzah case to glorify this commandment.
- Strive for simhah (happiness). The warmth of the Hanukkah flames brings joy on the coldest of nights. Find an uplifting Jewish quote and make it into a screen-saver for your computer. Something inspiring can relieve stress from your week at school.
- Balance visiting time with tzniut (privacy). When the Hanukkah candles flicker out, it's time to draw the shade and focus on the family. Give yourself some "me" space by designing a personalized roller shade for your window.
- Practice hakhnasat orhim (hospitality). On Hanukkah we open our window shades and invite the world to see our glowing hanukkiyot. Make an attractive welcome sign for your door, and invite guests to come in. Arrange a place to sit, whether it's a well-worn chair or a soft pillow, for your best friend-who might even (sometimes) be your brother or sister.