Become a premium member today to unlock the full library with unlimited and uninterrupted access
Get StartedAdam's First Winter (Part 2 of 4)
Is Hanukkah Like Christmas?
As we wade through the Rabbis’ discussion of Hanukkah, we notice that they seem to be hung up on a very peculiar definition of this holiday: Hanukkah is an eight day festival in which we may not fast or mourn. Huh? Come again? What does this have to do with latkes, lights or dreidels?
While this description doesn’t sound like the Hanukkah we know, it does seem to mirror an ancient festival that was initiated by none other than Adam - the first human to roam the earth - in response to his very first winter. Join Rabbi Fohrman as he takes us down this rabbit hole to try to understand why the Rabbis describe Hanukkah in the way that they do, and what it might mean in light of Adam’s primordial winter holiday.
Want to watch the full video for free?
Enter your email and we’ll send you a link to watch the full series free.
What is Aleph Beta?
Aleph Beta is a unique kind of Torah library. Led by our founder, Rabbi David Fohrman, we are dedicated to high-level, textual Torah learning for adults that is intellectually and spiritually sophisticated, that enlivens your Jewish practice and helps you forge a deeper connection to God. Whether you’ve been learning in yeshiva for years or you’re just beginning your Torah journey, you’re sure to find something meaningful and surprising waiting for you here.
Browse our library of over 1,000 beautifully produced animated videos, podcasts, deep dive courses, and printable guides. Topics include the weekly parsha, Jewish holidays & fast days, laws & mitzvot, prayers, relationships, big philosophical ideas and more. Have something to say at the Shabbos table that will amaze your family and guests and bring deep meaning into their lives.
