Sicha, Shabbos Chayei Sara 5732
A. Why was the month of Kislev “offended”?
According to the Midrash, on the 25th of Kislev the construction of the Mishkan was completed, but G-d postponed its dedication until the month of Nissan, when Isaac was born. Kislev “felt slighted,” but in return, it received the dedication and purification of the Temple in the days of the Hasmoneans.
B. Dedicating a House
The word “Chanukah” is related to the concept of education or training—the dedication of something new.
This was the case with the dedication of the Mishkan, the dedication of the Temples, and the purification of the Temple in the days of the Hasmoneans—all expressions of new beginnings.
Even today, it is customary to hold a dedication ceremony for a new home, as mentioned by the halachic authorities. It is also recorded that the Alter Rebbe recited a discourse titled Mizmor Shir Chanukat HaBayit at the dedication of a home.
What is the connection between dedicating a private home and a psalm about the Temple?
The answer: Every Jewish home is meant to be a mini-Temple, a place where the Divine Presence rests, just like in the Temple itself.
Dedications of new things are done with special joy. For example, at the dedication of the Mishkan, many more offerings than usual were brought, and incense was offered by a single individual, a special occurrence.
At the dedication of the First Temple in the days of Solomon, there was such a great celebration that Yom Kippur was suspended. Special festivities also took place at the dedication of the Second Temple. In the days of the Hasmoneans, commemoration of the miracle of the menorah lights was established for all generations.
C. Everyday Dedication
The essence of Kislev is the power to renew our Divine service. During this month, anyone can serve G-d with vitality and special enthusiasm—the kind of excitement we feel when experiencing something new.
