Light 3 Candles Everyone knows that I'm an advocate of cross-cultural relations, interfaith spiritual services, tolerance, knowledge, etc...so, that said...
Whether you were aware of it or not, yesterday marked the one day a year that both Jews and Christians light not one, not two, but three candles as a respective tradition to each of their beliefs.
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On the left, we have a picture of the three candles lit by Jews on the chanukiah commemorating the 3rd night of Channukah (i.e. yesterday). The chanukiah or menorah has 8 candle holes, one for each night of Channukah + one extra, shamas, to light the the other candles. While on the right, there are four candles total, one for each Sunday during the season of Advent -- of which three are lit on the 3rd night of the season (i.e. yesterday).
Fascinating, huh?
Finally, as an addendum and food for thought, it so happens that I have a friend who brought up this phenomenon in conversation with a statement of wonder that went something like this (mind you this does not by any means represent my own beliefs and/or practices): "...sitting here and pondering how at the end of the day we're all just pagan troglodytes that use fire to scare away the darkness."
Finding commonalities and sharing traditions brings our world one step closer to that better place. Each year I host 8 nights of Chanukkah at my house. My young Jewish friends don't have to light candles alone, and my other friends can experience Chanukkah. It is low key but with the American tradition, everyone gets presents! I also cook dinner for everyone including latkes and wine each night. It is also tradition for the people who have never lit Chanukiot to light. Everyone has a great time, and I have quite a few non-Jewish friends who look forward to it each year!
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