Mr Tony Burke (Watson, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Finance) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

During the break between sitting weeks this year and next year, many Australians will be celebrating Chanukah so, while it is a bit early, this is the only chance to send some wishes. I am delighted to wish the Jewish community in Australia a happy and peaceful Chanukah.

For kids, Chanukah is a time of doughnuts and dreidels and gifts—eight days of festivities to look forward to throughout the year. Chanukah is also a time when the Jewish community comes together to celebrate the Maccabean Jews regaining control of Jerusalem and rededicating the temple. Antiochus had previously outlawed Judaism and looted the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Despite the lootings, the Maccabees found a small amount of oil by which to light the temple. They burnt the oil knowing there was only enough for one day, and the oil miraculously burnt for eight days. As this time, we can see it as a symbol for those who feel as though they are mired in darkness; there is light and goodness, which holds more potential than we realise. The Maccabees' sense of courage, faith and righteousness continues to live on in the Jewish community.

On the topic of goodness, the root of the Hebrew word for Chanukah means education. A crucial theme at the heart of the Jewish faith, and the dedication of the Jewish community to education has benefited Australia immensely. Today, I pay tribute to that dedication, which is so much a part of Judaism. Modern multicultural Australia should give us the opportunity to celebrate every occasion with joy, rather than avoid religious or cultural references out of fear. I wish, on behalf of the opposition, a happy and peaceful Chanukah.