In the aftermath of the brutal attack that took place on Bondi Beach, just a few miles from Sydney, Australia, Rabbi Martin Levy and hosts Jim Falk and the Reverend Talitha Arnold discussed the rise of antisemitism taking place in the United States and globally. Despite efforts to counter racism, Jews feel increasingly threatened and frequently are taking steps to hide their faith. He also called on listeners of all faiths to speak out against discrimination and to recognize that there is a difference between objecting to the actions of the Israeli government and being antisemitic. Talitha reminded listeners that it was a Muslim, Ahmed al Ahmed, who wrestled away the rifle from the terrorist.
The discussion then turned to the history of Hannukah where Levy described the different interpretations of the holiday, one of which focuses on the Maccabean Revolt against the Greeks and the other on the legend that the oil lasted for eight days despite there was only enough for one, thus the lighting of the candles on consecutive nights. Through the years, the holiday, not unlike Christmas, has become increasingly commercialized; yet it still is a time for family gatherings, and a time celebrate faith, resilience and hope for a better future.
Throughout the program, listeners will enjoy listening to the following songs:
Light One Candle recorded by Beit Tikva cantor Lynda Drescher; Ocho Hanukkah sung by the Singing Sergeants of The United States Air Force Band; I am a Latke, recorded by Lynda Drescher; and Light One Candle, by Peter, Paul and Mary.
Host: Jim Falk
Co-Host: Talitha Arnold
Guest: Rabbi Martin Levy, Temple Bei Tikva