Hanukka and the Land 2

            The holidays of Ḥanukka and Purim differ in their nature. Purim commemorates the physical salvation of the Jewish People, while Ḥanukka celebrates spiritual redemption.

            There is also a major difference in the practices of the two holidays. The mitzva of Purim is hearing Megilat Esther. The mitzva of Ḥanukka is seeing the candles. Indeed, according to the Halacha, one who has not yet lit candles may say the blessing upon seeing the candles lit by another Jew.

            Rabbi Yehoshua Weitzman, the head of the Hesder yeshiva of Ma’alot explained the different practices. Purim reminds us of a miracle which took place outside Israel. Outside Israel, it is only as if one hears of miracles. The events of Ḥanukka took place in Israel, where one is closer to God, and therefore sees the miracles.

            This difference, Rabbi Weitzman noted, is apparent also in the choice of words of the Babylonian Talmud versus that of the Jerusalem [Eretz Yisrael] Talmud.  When the Babylonian Talmud presents a proof to an argument, it uses the introductory phrase ta sh’ma (“come and hear”). The Jerusalem Talmud introduces proofs with the words ta chazi (“come and see”).