- December 23, 2024
- 9:09 pm
- Ukraine
December 23, 2024 at the site of the ruins of the legendary synagogue “Golden Rose” A large Hanukkah menorah was lit in Lviv.
This bright gesture was the first in recent times eight decadeswhen the fire of Jewish tradition broke out in this place.
Lviv: light against propaganda
Lviv is a city that Russian propaganda calls “anti-Semitic,” “Nazi,” and “Bandera.” However, reality shows the opposite. It is in Lviv that different peoples, including Ukrainians and Jews, together revive their national memory and cultural traditions.
The installation of the Hanukkah menorah on the ruins of the Golden Rose is a clear testament to respect for Jewish heritage and mutual cultural exchange.
The Golden Rose Synagogue was destroyed by the Nazis in 1941 (according to other sources – in 1942). The remains of the synagogue have been declared an architectural monument of local significance (No. 513-lv). It is included in the Program for the Reproduction of Sights of History and Culture of Ukraine (approved by the Government of Ukraine in 1999) and is registered with UNESCO.
Local residents and visitors to the city are sharing photos of the menorah on social networks, which looks great both day and night, reports December 23, 2024 United Jewish Community of Ukraine.
Memorial complex “Space of synagogues”where the menorah was installed, was created on the site of three Jewish shrines destroyed by the Nazis:
- Synagogue “Golden Rose” (1582–1941): one of the oldest synagogues in Eastern Europe. Destroyed in 1941.
- Great City Synagogue (1801): building in the style of classicism.
- School “Beit Midrash” (XVIII century): on its second floor there were eight small synagogues.
The complex was created from 2010 to 2016 to perpetuate the memory of the Lviv Jewish community, destroyed during World War II.
“The lighting of the menorah at this place is not just a ritual, it is the revival of memory and traditions that cannot be erased.”notes United Jewish Community of Ukraine.
The meaning of Hanukkah for the Jewish community
Hanukkah is a holiday of light and hope, symbolizing the fight for freedom and the preservation of identity.
For the Jews of Ukraine and, in particular, for the Lviv community, Hanukkah at the site of the “Golden Rose” became a symbol of rebirth:
- Memory Saving: Despite the losses, the memory of Jewish culture in Ukraine is alive.
- Community unification: Such events strengthen the connection between generations.
- Spiritual rebirth: The fire of the menorah recalls a miracle that Jews have honored for thousands of years.
Figures and facts
| Indicator | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of foundation of “Golden Rose” | 1582 |
| Year of the destruction of the synagogue | 1941 (according to other sources – 1942) |
| Number of synagogues in Beit Midrash | 8 |
| The period of creation of the memorial complex | 2010–2016 |
| Number of years since destruction | 80 |
Event organization
The installation of the menorah was made possible thanks to the initiative United Jewish Community of Ukraine – the largest organization uniting Jews in the country.
Goals and objectives of the organization:
- Support for Jewish culture and traditions.
- Ensuring the preservation of the memory of the Holocaust.
- Conducting educational events and celebrations.
Restoring the memory of the “Golden Rose” is an important step towards unifying the Jewish community not only in Ukraine, but also in the Diaspora, including the Jews of Israel.
Community reaction
Jews in Ukraine and Israel are actively discussing the event on social networks.
“The shining menorah in the heart of Lviv is a reminder that traditions are alive, despite years and tragedies,” writes a Facebook user.
On our website NAnews – Israel News It is noted that such steps strengthen the connection between Israel and Ukraine, as well as strengthen cultural bridges between peoples.
Why is this important for Israel?
Events like the installation of the menorah in Lviv are important for Israelis:
- Connection with the Diaspora: more than a million Israelis have Ukrainian roots.
- Strengthening relationships: support for Jewish culture in Ukraine contributes to the rapprochement of the two countries.
- General historical experience: The Holocaust affected both Ukrainian and Israeli Jews.
“The United Jewish Community of Ukraine does incredibly important work, reminding us all of our roots and traditions,” the organizers note.
Conclusion: Light of Hope and Remembrance
The installation of the Hanukkah menorah on the ruins of the Golden Rose became not only a symbol of revival, but also a step towards the unity of Jewish communities around the world.
NAnews – Israel News will continue to follow developments that strengthen the friendship between Israel and Ukraine, creating a bright future for the Jewish people.
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