Like the flickering flames of the Chanukah menorah, the story of our Jewish people burns brightly through the pages of world history, a testament to resilience and perhaps a little divine providence. Though burdened with trials that could have extinguished our light, we have also witnessed miracles that defy the bounds of human understanding.
From the steadfast survival of a nation scattered across the globe to the miraculous reestablishment of our Jewish homeland, Israel, on our ancestral soil, ours is a journey of hope rekindled time and again.
Chanukah reminds us that just as a single cruse of oil illuminated the Temple against all odds, our Jewish people's enduring faith and spirit continue to illuminate a world often shrouded in darkness. It is not merely a story of survival, but of triumph—light over dark and proof that even in the face of overwhelming challenges, the miraculous is not only possible but inevitable when perseverance and courage prevail.
I want to share eight "miracles" brought to life by Jewish National Fund-USA—one for each candle on the menorah:
1. A Dream Lit in Basel (1901) In a miraculous moment of unity, Jewish National Fund was founded at the 5th Zionist Congress by Theodor Herzl. Here was a guy barely 40 years old, yet he believed he could change the world. Who could have imagined that a small collection of visionaries, many of whom couldn’t even afford to wear the suits they rented to attend the Zionist congress, would ignite a movement to rebuild our Jewish homeland?
2. The Return to Zion After nearly 2,000 years of exile, the Jewish people reclaimed their ancestral homeland in 1948. Jewish National Fund played a pivotal role in purchasing land, ensuring that generations of Jews could once again call the land of Israel home.
3. A Forest of Hope Your philanthropic investments in Jewish National Fund-USA have helped plant over 260 million trees in Israel, transforming barren landscapes into lush forests. From the Galilee to the Negev, these trees provide shade, oxygen, and a symbol of renewal.
4. Making the Desert Bloom In a land where rainfall is scarce, Jewish National Fund-USA has turned the Negev desert into an oasis of hope. Through investments in agricultural technology, Israel is now a global leader in sustainable farming, R&D, and arid land stewardship. Yet, we have also brought life to the desert in the countless Zionist pioneers who now call the Negev desert home. With your help, we are attracting 500,000 new residents to Israel's south!
5. Shaping Future Leaders Since 1972, the Alexander Muss High School in Israel (Muss) has inspired over 32,000 Jewish teens. This life-changing study abroad experience connects students with their heritage, empowering them to lead their communities with pride and purpose. From former Facebook COO, Sheryl Sandberg to the legendary singer, Matisyahu, we are nurturing the custodians of our people’s future.
6. A Water Revolution Facing a water crisis, Jewish National Fund-USA stepped in to build over 250 reservoirs and recycled water systems. Today, Israel is a global innovator in water conservation and leads the world – by a long shot – in water recycling.
7. A Space-Age Vision In Mitzpe Ramon, southern Israel, our new tech hub is propelling Israel into the space race. In the heart of the desert, surrounded, ironically, by a Mars-like landscape, Israelis are dreaming beyond Earth.
8. Restoring Home, Restoring Hope After the devastating October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks, Jewish National Fund-USA is helping tens of thousands of Israelis rebuild their lives. Their commitment shines as a beacon of resilience and hope as we provide new housing sites, fire stations, resilience centers, medical facilities, civilian security provisions, playgrounds, parks, schools, and so much more.
This Chanukah, as we light the menorah, let us celebrate these modern miracles. Jewish National Fund-USA reminds us that with vision, courage, and faith, we can all create light in the darkest of times.
Chag Chanukah Sa’meach – Happy Chanukah!
Please email me anytime at CEO@jnf.org.
P.S. Spread the light in Israel. Explore volunteering with us at jnf.org/volunteeril
