This is the very period when the Chashmonaim experienced great siyata deShmaya, in repealing the decrees and were able to resume their Torah study and mitzvah observance in the merit of their self-sacrifice.
It is known what the Ramchal wrote, "Whenever improvement
and correction which was made in the past and which left a great light which illuminated this time of year — when that time comes round, that very light shines brightly as then and the tikkun is revived in the present, with a reflection of the original one. The offshoot of that period reflects the time that it took place."
If so, every year when Chanukah arrives, it is a time more conducive than any other of the year, more than any other time, to succeed in Torah study and to carry out the mitzvos in perfection. Since Chanukah was the time when the evil decrees were abolished and one could again study Torah without fear, there must be a greater obligation to toil in Torah.
The Sheloh HaKodosh wrote: "These sacred days are particularly conducive to application to Torah study, more than other times." Therefore, we must strengthen ourselves and not be lax during this sacred period. Indeed, a pity for every minute which one misses out for Torah study.
It is simply true that one must not waste precious time by attending events unsuitable for bnei Torah. On the contrary, during these holy days, one must constantly increase Torah study. We pray that Torah study will be amplified in all Torah institutions and in all halls of Torah and batei medrash, and that the public will fortify itself as is required in upholding the designated study sessions and even increase the study.
The days of Chanukah are favorable for adherence to Torah, each one according to his capacity, through joy and serenity. Anyone with a bit of understanding will realize this and by applying it, he will merit success in his study throughout the year. May it be His will that the merit of Torah protect us and all of Jewry and that we live to see the geula sheleima, speedily and in our days. Amen.
Y. Gershon Edelstein
Dov Lando
Boruch Mordechai Ezrachi
Meir Zvi Bergman
Boruch Dov Povarsky
Moshe Hillel Hirsch
Moshe Yeshiva Schlesinger
Yitzchok Zilberstein
Yehuda Ades
Dovid Cohen
Zvi Drabkin
Yitzchok Hakker
Arye Levi
Aviezer Piltz
Boruch Weisbecker
Avrohom Yitzchok Kook
Shraga Shteinman
Eliezer Yehuda Finkel
