Celebrating the Light: Hanukkah, the Old Testament, and Yeshua’s Connection!

“The Old Testament is the story of our people—how we were once slaves but are now free.” These are the words of Ethel Chadwick, who passionately intertwines the traditions of her Jewish faith with her belief in Yeshua (Jesus) as the Messiah. Her perspective bridges ancient customs with modern faith, showing how deeply connected the Old and New Testaments are.

During a recent podcast interview, Ethel’s joy was palpable as she shared her journey of discovering the Jewish roots of Jesus and how Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, carries profound significance for believers today.

The Light of Hanukkah and the Light of Yeshua

Growing up, Ethel celebrated Hanukkah as a remembrance of the Maccabees’ victory and the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. But as a believer in Yeshua, the festival took on an even deeper meaning.

• Rededicating the Temple: Hanukkah celebrates the rededication of the temple. For believers, this mirrors how our bodies, as temples of the Holy Spirit, can be rededicated to God.
• The Shamash Candle: Known as the "servant candle," the shamash lights all other candles on the menorah. Ethel wonderfully connects this to Yeshua, who exemplified servant leadership by washing His disciples’ feet and ultimately sacrificing Himself for humanity.
• Yeshua, the Light of the World: Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, beautifully parallels Jesus' proclamation in John 8:12: “I am the light of the world.” This truth, Ethel explained, illuminates the connection between the Jewish faith and the Messiah.

Why the Old Testament Matters for Believers

Ethel emphasized that the Old Testament is foundational for understanding the life and mission of Jesus. 

• A History of Redemption: From Jonah in the belly of the whale, foreshadowing Yeshua’s three days in the tomb, to the prophecies in Isaiah and Psalms, the Old Testament points directly to the Messiah!
• A Shared Heritage: “It’s the story of our people,” Ethel shared, “how God parted the Red Sea, brought down Jericho’s walls, and performed miracles.” Teaching these stories to children lays the groundwork and foundation for recognizing Yeshua’s fulfillment of these promises.

Practical Ways to Teach Children

Ethel believes in making the Bible come alive for children, especially through music. Singing songs like This Little Light of Mine during Hanukkah connects the joy of the festival with the truth that Yeshua is the light of the world.

She also recommends reading stories from the Old Testament—stories of courage, faith, and miracles—and helping kids see how they all point to Jesus. For toddlers, even roaring like lions (which are often mentioned in Scripture) can make Bible learning fun and engaging.

Hanukkah reminds us of God’s miracles, His provision, and His light in our lives. Whether you’re lighting the menorah, teaching your children about the Old Testament, or reflecting on how Yeshua fulfills the law and prophets, let this season be one of rededication and joy.

As Ethel so eloquently puts it, “You can see Yeshua in the Bible everywhere—if you know to look.”