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In this weeks parsha we have the historic battle between good and evil which is represented by the confrontation between Yaakov and Eisav. It is interesting to note that Eisav comes with 400 men. Yaakov has only himself and his 11 sons. Why did Eisav need such a large amout of men to overcome Yaakov? This is method the Eisav's of the world use against the Jewish people throughout Jewish history. Independence war where 50 million Arabs fought against less than 1 million Jews (and we still won!)
Hitler organized the mighty German army against the defenseless Jews of Europe.

But interestingly Eisav does NOT fight Yaakov. He ends up hugging Yaakov. Why the hug? Was Eisav forgiving Yaakov and showing his love for his brother? No Eisav realized that he could not physically defeat Yaakov so he tried a different tactic. Eisav would try to keep Yaakov close and overwhelm him with his values. He would try to assimilate Yaakov to his way of life and to his negative traits. Yaakov senses this and gets away from Eisav as quickly as possible. It's possible that this method is more dangerous to the Jewish people. We have seen this throughout Jewish History.

This is exactly the story of Chanukah. Of our enemies trying to assimilate us rather than try wipe us out. Yaakov represents Maariv. He had a difficult life but always turned to Hashem when he needed Him. Through the darkness he found the light. The menorah is exactly that. At the darkest time of the year when there is the most darkness we find the light and look to it to remind us of who we are. The candles remind us of the Torah and our connection to our forefathers and of who we really are. The eternal Jewish people!

Shabbat Shalom.