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The 'Mighty Maccabees'

A few hundred ragtag, rabbinic Maccabees faced the might of Antiochus’ army 60,000 fighting men strong The Chanukah story we all know The rabbis delivered Greece a knockout blow Rededicated the Temple, and with a small cruise of oil lit the lamps of the Menorah, eight nights in all Yet in our prayers, not a single word about the military prowess of the ‘Mighty Maccabees’ We thank God, and God alone, for routing Greece Mattathias, the leader, and his sons, five indomitable priests we praise instead ~ but only for their spiritual feats ___________________________________________ The Talmud asks: 'What is Chanukah?' The above is (a much-condensed version of) the answer it gives. (Tractate 'Shabbos,' 21a - 23b)... Also found in the 'Abridged Book of Jewish Law, Laws of Chanukah, Solomon Gantzfried, (English version)

Copyright © | Year Posted 2024




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Date: 12/23/2024 4:30:00 AM
Fantabulous Chanukkah writing, good friend. My very best wishes for a most wonderful Chanukkah to you and your family. Shalom u'vrakha. Am Yisreal Chai. ~
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Date: 12/22/2024 5:44:00 AM
we praise instead ~ but only for their spiritual feats… Enjoyed reading this poetic treat! Blessings, dear one!
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Date: 12/22/2024 4:38:00 AM
Very informative Gershon, I hadnt heard of them until now. Tom
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Gershon Wolf
Date: 12/22/2024 8:29:00 PM
Really?! Ever hear of the Maccabee Games?! How 'bout 'Maccabee Beer?!' ~ gw
Date: 12/21/2024 11:26:00 PM
Love this insightful write Gershon. Sharing the story of the Mighty Maccabees who should have been honored and mentioned as part of this great victory. Like Paul Harvey use to say, "Here is the rest of the story." which you have shared my friend. I heard it here first. Thank you for sharing this great piece of History...
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Gershon Wolf
Date: 12/22/2024 8:31:00 PM
Page TWO! ~ P.H.

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