Jews often speak about light in the darkest of times. We kindle the Chanukkiah in the darkest days of the year. Yet this Shabbat, one where there is the most light, we read about the lights of the menorah, lit each day. Seforno, the Italian commentator, teaches that each candle of the menorah has a specific role in the world, conduits of spirituality to the Jewish people. He further explains a lesson of musar, ethical teaching. The right side of the menorah represents eternal values, life of the future. The left side represents physical life here on earth. We need both sides functioning properly in order to live a purposeful life.
When the Torah was revealed to the Jewish people, the response was vayaanu kol haam yachdav, the nation answered together.
The Jewish people have always been one of unity without uniformity. This had and should always be our blessing.
