Gershon Wolf Poet Rhyme

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)

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Regina Elliott December 23, 2024 at 4:30 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. ~

Kim Rodrigues December 22, 2024 at 5:44 AM we praise instead ~ but only for their spiritual feats… Enjoyed reading this poetic treat! Blessings, dear one!

Tom Cunningham December 22, 2024 at 4:38 AM Very informative Gershon, I hadnt heard of them until now. Tom Gershon Wolf December 22, 2024 at 8:29 PM Really?! Ever hear of the Maccabee Games?! How 'bout 'Maccabee Beer?!' ~ gw

Michael Tor December 21, 2024 at 11:26 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... Gershon Wolf December 22, 2024 at 8:31 PM Page TWO! ~ P.H.