A True Chanukah Story: George Washington’s First Chanukah

 

 

 

Jews have lived in the United States since colonial times celebrating Chanukah along with their other holidays. In this article you’ll see how Chanukah has inspired one of America’s greatest leaders, General George Washington.

On December 19, 1777 General Washington and his Continental Army arrived at Valley Forge. Many of the General’s troops were barefoot, starving, and dying from exposure. The General was probably pretty depressed.

On Christmas Eve Washington walked amongst his men. He saw a glimmering light glowing a private’s face. The man sat apart from the others huddled over two tiny flames.

Washington approached Private Asher Pollock of the Second Rhode Island Battalion. “What are you doing, Private?”

“It is Hanukah, sir,” the Private said. “A thousand years ago our Temple was seized by Syrian-Greek soldiers who dedicated it to the worship of Zeus. Soon after, their emperor, Antiochus, made the observance of Judaism punishable by death. We were ordered to worship Greek gods.”

Washington kneeled next to Asher and the flickering candles. “What happened?”

“Mattathias, a rabbi, refused to cooperate with the Greeks. He and his sons hid in the hills surrounding Judea. These rebels became known as the Maccabees. Eventually, they retook the land from the Greeks.”

“So why the candles?” Washington asked.

“The Maccabees wanted to consecrate the Temple in G-d’s name, but only had oil for one day. They lit it anyway expecting it to go out before more oil could be found. That day supply lasted 8 days.”

“A miracle!” Washington beamed. “Where did you get this candlestick?”

“We call it a menorah. I brought it from my father’s house. Tonight I light it to remind the world of the great miracle that happened long ago. I know another miracle is at hand.”

“You’re a Jew from a nation of prophets. You say we will be victorious?”

“Yes sir,” Private Asher Pollock said. “We will beat the British like the Maccabees whopped the Greeks.”

General Washington stood, his face shined anew. He shook Asher’s hand vigorously and disappeared into the darkness.

Years later, Asher Pollock moved to New York City, the capitol of the new nation of the United States of America. One Chanukah night there was a knock on his door. Standing before him was President George Washington. Washington said, “Behold, the wonderful candle. The candle of hope of the Jewish People.”

The President put his hands on Asher’s shoulder. “This candle and your inspiring words at Valley Forge ignited a light in my heart that night.” Washington then hung a golden medallion around Asher’s neck.

After President Washington left, through tear-filled eyes Asher saw an etching of the Chanukah Menorah on the medallion. Under it was written: “A token of gratitude for the light of your candle. -George Washington.