The Message of the Dreidel

by Rabbi Mordechai Rhine

Chanukah is the celebration of Jewish continuity. The events that we commemorate took place while the Jews were in the Land of Israel, during the time of the Second Temple (c.165 BCE). The Syrian-Greeks outlawed mitzvah observance and threatened to destroy Judaism. It was through the heroic stance of the Maccabees that the threat of assimilation was averted. Thus, Chanukah commemorates the idea that, despite challenge, the Jewish people will persevere.

Interestingly, the game of dreidel has become deeply associated with Chanukah. As the lights of the Menorah burn brightly, Jewish children and adults settle down together to play this traditional game. “Nes Gadol Haya Shom- A great miracle happened there,” the dreidel declares. The dreidel seems to play an important role in the story of Chanukah. What exactly does the dreidel represent?

When the Syrian-Greeks banned mitzvah observance, the traditional forum for Torah study was lost. Yeshivos were closed down; even parents were forbidden to teach their children their heritage. Yet, the Jews’ devotion was so great that they did not stop learning Torah. Together, children and adults would go to the forests to study. When soldiers would come to investigate, the Jews would play with their “tops.” In this way, they pretended that they were merely playing in the fields. By disguising Torah study as a game they were able to ensure Jewish continuity.

The idea of linking profound goals with games and joy has application for all generations. Judaism recognizes that education, for example, should be seen as a joyous experience. Thus, in the Middle Ages, a Jewish child was taught the Alef-Bais with a page in one hand, and honey in the other. Similarly, in the same month as the High Holidays we also have the celebration of Simchas Torah.

The message of the dreidel is twofold. Firstly, it is the declaration that even when mitzvah observance is challenged, Jewish ingenuity can enable proper observance. Also, just as the game of dreidel ensured continuity in their generation, it is joyous and invigorated observance that will ensure continuity in all times.

As we experience the holiday of Chanukah, let us keep in mind that joy and spiritual growth must go hand in hand. Each mitzvah has its spark- its magic- waiting to be discovered. It is up to us to spin the dreidel of life joyously, and to be winners, no matter where the dreidel falls.

With best wishes for a wonderful Shabbos, and a Happy Chanukah,

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