Light Over Darkness

The lighting of the Menorah in the Beit Hamikdash was a special task given to Aharon Hakohein. The lights of the Menorah were to give light seven days a week.

The Torah tells us that following the instructions of the lighting, it says, ויעש כן, “And so it was done.” The simple meaning is that Aharon was meticulous in every detail.

The Malbim noted a parallel to the instructions in creation. Every time Hashem ordered the creation of another entity, the Torah wrote, ויהי כן, “And so it was.”

The connection to Aharon’s ויעש כן, and the ויהי כן, in creation had to do specifically with the light that was to fill the earth. This was the instance out of ten that the words, ויהי אור, “Let there be light,” appeared instead of ויהי כן.

The Sages explained that the original light was hidden and was known as אור הגנוז. The world was not ready for this brilliant, holy light.

When Aharon lit the Menorah, this hidden light was restored, as more sanctity was brought into the world.

Light is a symbol of holiness and goodness. Darkness is just the opposite. It was the task of the Kohanim as well as the Jewish people, to bring light, goodness, and morality.

As this is taking place right before our eyes, the greatest objection comes from those who are living in darkness. They are fighting what they know to be true. And they are doing this viciously and in the most ugly way. The light will defeat the darkness and goodness will prevail over evil. The light of the Menorah will continue to shine brightly!