Renewal:
A New World of  Miracles

Chanukah was a time of dedication and renewal not only for the Beis
HaMikdash but for Klal Yisrael. They left behind the natural world described by Shlomo HaMelech as being "nothing new under the sun". (Koheles 1:9), and entered a new environment based on miracles such as the Neis Chanukah, as the following remarks will elucidate.

​Klal Yisrael had become accustomed (during the Hellenistic period) to perceive the world as being governed by (Teva) laws of nature. Its moral and religious behavior were based primarily on habit rather than enthusiasm. The Chanukah miracle demonstrated that the universe was not quite as rigid as Jewry had believed. Things could change! Miracles
did occur.

​This same theme, dispelling the viewpoint that the universe was governed solely by natural phenomena, is indicated by the requirement that the Chanukah Menorah be kindled in full public view while people are still walking outside, or as expressed by the Gemara, “Ad SheTichleh Regel min Hashuk”, (Shabbos 21b). This requirement is not only setting a time limit
for the mitzvah's fulfillment but is also suggesting the need to eliminate, (SheTichla, suggests) habitual behavior (connotation of Hergel) from our lives.

Excerpted from Days of Joy: Sfas Emes
Ideas and insights of the Sfas Emes on Chanukah and Purim.