A Candle That Shines Through the Darkness

Legacy is not just about what we inherit; it’s about the light we pass on to future generations. At 10:03 in the video, we are drawn into a moving story about a single candlestick that embodies hope, resilience, and an enduring legacy of faith.

The candlestick belonged to Rebbetzin Slava Khanna, a great-grandmother who, along with her husband, buried their sacred Shabbos items—including this candlestick—in the courtyard of their synagogue as the winds of war swept through Europe. Days later, they were taken to Auschwitz, where Rebbetzin Slava Khanna and her husband perished. But even in the face of such darkness, their light endured.

Years later, a lone survivor of their town brought the candlestick back to their family. He explained that he had returned to the synagogue in the ruins of Nodvar and unearthed the candlestick—engraved with Rebbetzin Slava Khanna’s name. It was a message, a sign that even through unimaginable loss, the light of faith must continue to shine.

This candlestick became a symbol of perseverance. It was handed down to the Rebbetzin’s granddaughter, who lit it every Shabbos, continuing a tradition that her ancestors risked their lives to preserve. Today, that same candlestick rests with her daughter, who carries forward the message: “We do not sit in darkness. We kindle light.”

This is more than a story about a candlestick; it’s a call to action. Each of us has the ability to bring light into the world, even in its darkest moments. Whether through small acts of kindness or standing firm in our faith, we contribute to a legacy that outlives us. It’s a reminder that the flame we nurture today can illuminate countless lives for generations to come.