One of the most noticeable differences between Jewish practices in Israel and the Diaspora comes during the Chanukah season. Travelling around Jerusalem as the stars come out during Chanukah one sees the streets lit up with Chanukah lights in every doorway. While the practice in the Diaspora is to light Chanukah lights indoors – a practice that began in fear of Gentile persecution – the practice in Israel has returned to the original institution, lighting Chanukah lights outside in the doorway. There is no fear of Gentile persecution in Israel and no reason to light as if we are scared....
Monitoring Antisemitism Intel
