In a heartwarming show of unity, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz graced a beautiful Hanukkah ceremony at Berlin’s iconic Brandenburg Gate. Dressed in a black velvet skullcap, Scholz’s presence illuminated the event as he kindled the first candle of the menorah, heralding the start of the Jewish festival of lights.

As the candle danced in the Berlin night, Scholz expressed his wholehearted support for the Jewish community. He hoped that the light of Hanukkah would reach far beyond the square, burning bright long after the eight days of celebration had passed. His words carried a warmth and kindness, echoing the timeless message of hope and perseverance that Hanukkah represents.

However, the joyous occasion was tinged with the recent trauma that has affected the Jewish community, especially in the wake of Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel. This devastating incident, which claimed 1,200 lives and led to the capture of 240 hostages, has deeply impacted the collective psyche of Jews around the world.

Beside Scholz, Berlin Rabbi Yehuda Teichtal, a descendant of a Holocaust victim, urged both Jews and non-Jews to combat hatred with love. His empowering words reverberated through the crowd, igniting a sense of unity and resilience.

The ceremony also highlighted the worrying rise in antisemitic crimes in Germany. Since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict, there have been 1,372 crimes in Berlin with an anti-Israel context, indicating a troubling surge in discrimination. These alarming statistics serve as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of prejudice and the urgent need for societal change.

Amidst these challenges, the historical significance of the location was not lost on the attendees. Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner drew attention to the poignant connection between the ceremony and the city’s tumultuous past. Eighty-five years ago, the same iconic Brandenburg Gate bore witness to the horrific events of Kristallnacht, a night of violence against the Jewish population during the Holocaust.

Acknowledging this dark period in history, Wegner paid tribute to the resilience of the Jewish people and emphasized the city’s commitment to freedom, democracy, and diversity. His impassioned words encapsulated the enduring spirit of hope and unity that continues to shine brightly amidst the shadows of the past.

As the first candle of Hanukkah cast its glow over the solemn city, the collective sentiments of unwavering support and resilience echoed through the Berlin night. The ceremony served as a powerful testament to the enduring bond between communities and the unwavering spirit of hope that continues to illuminate even the darkest of times.