Daniel Greene traces the emergence of the idea of cultural pluralism to the lived experiences of a group of Jewish college students and public intellectuals, including the philosopher Horace M. Kallen. These young Jews faced particular challenges as they sought to integrate themselves into the American academy and literary world of the early 20th century. At Harvard University, they founded an influential student organization known as the Menorah Association in 1906 and later the Menorah Journal, which became a leading voice of Jewish public opinion in the 1920s. In response to the idea that the American melting pot would erase all cultural differences, the Menorah Association advocated a pluralist America that would accommodate a thriving Jewish culture while bringing Jewishness into mainstream American life.

Introduction: Standing before the Arch of Titus menorah -- From Titus to Moses-and back -- Flavian Rome to the nineteenth century -- Modernism, Zionism, and the menorah -- Creating a national symbol -- A Jewish holy grail -- The menorah at the Vatican -- Illuminating the path to Armageddon

Angry that his father is afraid to kindle the Hanukkah lights, Emanuel stows away on a whaling ship. When a storm overtakes the boat, it is his father’s change of heart and the family menorah that light the way home.

The Menorah was the most important Jewish symbol in the Land of Israel and the Diaspora. The prominent position of the menorah emphasizes its significance. The book presents the menorah development, form, meaning, significance, and symbolism in antiquity.

From snow on the ground to making applesauce and latkes to lighting the menorah, this sweet, lyrical story shows the seasonal and traditional ways we know Hanukkah is on its way.