On Dec. 24 — the first night of Hanukkah — a warm glow escaped the doors and windows of Congregation B’nai Israel in Northampton. Joyous expressions stretched from one rosy cheek to another inside, as Jews gathered around the Hanukkah menorah and celebrated the holiday with singing, eating and dancing late into the evening.
Johnny Joelson of Northampton described the night as “a lot of light and a lot of heat.”
At the deepest level, Fine said, Hanukkah is about being able to perceive light in the darkness.
That symbolism is particularly strong for Emily Hodos of Hadley, who referred to the divisiveness of this year’s presidential election.
“Here is about light, brightness, community,” said Dan Mason of Northampton. “And, hope.”