Have you ever heard of the ninth day of Chanukah?
What? They didn’t teach you about it in Hebrew School? Your menorah only has eight candles?
Let me explain with a story –
In 1977 on Shmini Atzeret (the last holiday of the High Holiday season), the Rebbe suffered a major heart attack that left him bedridden for over a month.
Customarily at the end of each holiday the Rebbe would pour a small amount of wine from his cup to all those assembled (this was referred to as “Kos Shel Brocho” lit. “Cup of Blessing” – click here to watch a video clip of this event from 1986). That year due to the heart attack the Rebbe was unable to carry out his usual custom.
Then two months later, on the last day of Chanukah, the Rebbe called his chief assistant Rabbi Hodakov into his study. The Rebbe instructed him to make the necessary arrangement for a farbrengen (a Chassidic gathering) to be held that afternoon and to ensure sufficient wine and cups in order for the customary distribution of Kos Shel Brocho to occur.
Those were the days before email, text and Blackberry messenger, yet the word spread fast nonetheless. It didn’t take long and a large crowd of Chassidim assembled for the farbrengen. The Rebbe spoke about two points that day:
1. Chanukah is a joyous time. It’s always encouraged to add in all matters of goodness, especially when the result is added Torah study and performance of mitzvoth. Although the last day of Chanukah is generally not celebrated with festive meals and gatherings, we can still be assured that our adding in celebration is a commendable thing to do.
2. There are discussions amongst Torah authorities as to whether in the Diaspora Chanukah should be observed for an extra day (as we do during the other major holidays of Pesach, Sukkot and Shavuot). The decision is that we do not. However, the Rebbe explained, the question itself shows that the original hypothesis has an element of validity.
Based on these points the Rebbe continued, it would be appropriate to maintain the joyous spirit of Chanukah into the Ninth Day. We can utilize the joy and energy of Chanukah to increase in one’s own effort in the study of Torah, especially Chassidic philosophy, and the performance of mitzvot and to use one’s influence to encourage others to do the same.
Friends, there you have it. Today is the Ninth Day of Chanukah!
Now, I don’t propose that you order a new menorah with nine candles. But I would encourage you to draw on the added measure of joy, energy and Jewish pride from Chanukah and make it impact today and the entire year.
May G-d protect our brethren in Israel and the world over from harm and send us Moshiach speedily. May He protect the armed forces of Israel and the United States wherever they may be. Shabbat Shalom!!
Happy Ninth Day of Chanukah!