The festival of Chanukah is a time not only of joy and celebration, but of quiet reflection and introspection. Our Sages teach us (see the commentaries on Mishlei 6:23) that the lights that we kindle reflect the inner light of Torah that burns bright in our national memories as well as in our individual homes.

That inner light is the Ohr Torah, the “Light of Torah,” and represents the mission of Ohr Torah Stone. We are here to illuminate the world with the teachings and ethics of Torah, ensuring the relevance of our heritage by engaging both world Jewry and Israeli society.

With that goal in mind, I am very pleased to share with you these Torah thoughts, written by select members of our faculty, to enlighten your Chanukah celebration. The contributors to this volume represent the hundreds of outstanding Torah scholars and educators who comprise an integral part of the Ohr Torah Stone family.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we will continue to dispel the darkness and radiate the light of Torah throughout the world. Please accept my best wishes to you and your family for a wondrous and joyous Chanukah.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Brander
President and Rosh HaYeshiva