Daf Yomi - Rosh Hashana 18 - Chanukah and Shabbos

by Reb Ben

The Gemara states that on Chanukah there is a requirement to publicize the miracle that occurred regarding the lighting of the menorah in the Bais HaMikdash. The Halacha is that if one only has sufficient oil or candles to light either the Shabbos candles or the Chanukah candles, he should light Shabbos candles as shalom bayis, domestic harmony, is more important than publicizing the miracle of Chanukah. We see from here the importance of being in a state of peace on Shabbos. It is said lo sevaaru eish bechol moshvoseichem beyom HaShabbos, you shall not kindle fire in any of your dwellings on the Shabbos day. The sefarim write that this alludes to the idea that one should not become angry on Shabbos, as fire denotes anger. Thus when one kindles the Shabbos and Chanukah lights, he should remember that most important is that peace and tranquility should reign in the home.