The Rambam makes the following fascinating observation upon his conclusion of the halachos of Chanukah, in his Mishneh Torah.

If one has insufficient funds for both Shabbos candles and for Chanukah candles, or for Shabbos candles and wine for Kiddush, Shabbos candles take precedence, because of the shalom bayis—the peace and domestic tranquility, which they bring into the home. Behold, G-d’s Name is erased, in order to foster peace between a man and his wife.

At which point, the Rambam concludes with the following beau­tiful words. Peace is exceedingly great, for the entire Torah was given in order to foster peace in the world. As it says:

Her ways are ways of beauty, and all her paths are peace. (Proverbs 3:17)

One Chanukah eve, Reb Nachum delayed lighting his Menorah, even though the preferable time for lighting the Menorah had already passed. It was not until his wife arrived that Reb Nachum lit his Menorah.

Later, Reb Nuchum was asked why he had waited for his wife, since, according to the halacha, a man can light the Menorah in behalf of his wife, even in her absence. Reb Nachum replied that he was aware of that halacha. However, he knew that his wife always looked forward eagerly to this mitzvah, and she would be deeply hurt if he kindled the Menorah without her. He therefore waited for her to return.

The ways of Torah are, indeed, ways of beauty and of peace.

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Tags: Chanukah, Chanukah, Holiday, Holidays, Rabbi's thoughts and teaching, Stories // 2 Comments »