The festival, also known as the festival of lights, runs from 6 to 14 December and saw an array of activities, including a lighting of a giant Menorah at Sandton City.
Kievman touched on the year of Hakhel, the year of gathering, which focused on unity and gathering among the Jewish people.
“This year is quite significant… because it comes after the Sabbatical year and it’s all about people coming together and strengthening their awareness of their Jewish observance and tradition,” he said.
He added that the entire new year would be dedicated to unity, with events organised in the hope of putting differences aside and coming together.
Kievman also reflected on the Chanukah festival, explaining that the focus had been on honouring the elderly through various events. Additionally, the festival was an opportunity to spend time with community members and family.
“The biggest highlight of the festival was bringing light into our dark world, we know our world has its problems, but we can help fix those problems by learning the message of the light,” he said.
“Focus on what unites us rather than what divides us in the year ahead.”
Details: For more information, contact 011 440 6600 or visit www.chabadsouthafrica.org
