Menachem Bluming ponders: Why do we use a shamash? Why not just strike a match and from it light the candles of that night of Chanukah?

The shamash’s flames is there simply to serve, its existence is for the other. It is content in its flame being used to light others, warming and illuminating. It reaches high above the rest not to turn itself into a ruler over them but to carefully watch over them. The shamash’s fire is not effected negatively because of this, it is only given more power to keep spreading light.

Our world is waiting for us to assist just like the shamash, to cover light in places where there is only darkness, spread heat where it’s cold, Torah in situations of confusion. To facilitate growth, care, to reach out.

Happy Chanukah!


Menachem Mendel Bluming and Chabad.org

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