26k so continuing in comments. lol.
You
what happens with hanukkah, where they light those 8 candles.. once they're all lit.. what goes on. What's this all about. There's no Jesus guy with them, right.. even though he was Jewish? What's this about, then.. Yahweh celebration day or not sure what it could be then. Cause xmas that's Jesus birthday. But I think Hanukkah happens in the same month. Like what's going on with all this.
Copilot
Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is a significant Jewish festival celebrated over eight days during the winter season. Let’s delve into the details:
What Chanukah Celebrates:
In the second century BCE, the Holy Land was under the rule of the Seleucids (Syrian-Greeks). These rulers attempted to impose Greek culture and beliefs on the people of Israel, suppressing mitzvah observance and belief in G‑d.
Against all odds, a small group of faithful but poorly armed Jews, led by Judah the Maccabee, rose up against the mighty Greek army. They successfully drove the Greeks out of the land, reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, and rededicated it to the service of G‑d.
When they sought to light the Temple’s Menorah (a seven-branched candelabrum), they found only a single cruse of olive oil that had escaped contamination by the Greeks. Miraculously, they lit the menorah, and the one-day supply of oil lasted for eight days, until new oil could be prepared under conditions of ritual purity. To commemorate and publicize these miracles, the sages instituted the festival of Chanukah.
How Chanukah Is Observed:
Menorah Lighting: At the heart of the festival is the nightly menorah lighting. The menorah has nine flames, with one being the shamash (the “attendant”), used to kindle the other eight lights.
Each night, an additional flame is lit. By the eighth night of Chanukah, all eight lights are kindled.
On Friday afternoon, the menorah must be lit before Shabbat candles, and the following evening, it is kindled only after Shabbat has ended.
Special blessings are recited before lighting the menorah, and traditional songs are sung afterward.
Menorahs are lit in households, synagogues, and public places. Jumbo menorahs even appear in front of city halls, legislative buildings, malls, and parks worldwide.
The Meaning for Us Today:
Chanukah celebrates the Jewish victory over the Syrian-Greek superpower in the second century BCE.
It also commemorates the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days.
The festival is also known as the Festival of Lights.
When Is Chanukah?:
Chanukah begins on the eve of Kislev 25 and continues for eight days.
On the civil calendar, it generally coincides with the month of December.
In 2024, Chanukah runs from December 25 to January 2.
In summary, Hanukkah is a time to celebrate dedication, miracles, and the enduring light that shines even in challenging times. It holds deep historical and spiritual significance for the Jewish community, and it’s a joyous occasion filled with traditions, prayers, and delicious fried foods. 🕎🕯️
You
ok, trying to picture what's going on. You got this Menorah.. which has like 8 candles on it. That sounds like a candelabra, "a candle holder with multiple arms". Why do they need so many.. cause it's dark in the room back in those days?
Copilot
Certainly! Let’s explore the significance of the Menorah (or Chanukiah) in the context of Hanukkah.
The Menorah:
The Menorah is a special candelabrum used during Hanukkah. It has eight branches, plus an additional central branch called the shamash (which means “attendant” in Hebrew).
The shamash is used to kindle the other eight candles. It serves as a helper candle and is not counted among the main lights.
The Menorah is distinct from a regular candelabra, as it has a specific religious purpose and symbolism.
Symbolism and Meaning:
Each of the eight candles represents one of the eight days of Hanukkah. These days commemorate the miracle of the oil that occurred during the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.
The story goes that when the Maccabees reclaimed the Temple, they found only a small cruse of pure oil to light the Menorah. Miraculously, this oil lasted for eight days, allowing them to purify and rededicate the Temple.
Therefore, the Menorah symbolizes the miracle of light and the victory of faith over oppression.
Why Eight Candles?:
The number eight is significant because it corresponds to the duration of the miracle (eight days).
The Menorah is lit progressively: one candle on the first night, two on the second, and so forth, until all eight candles are kindled by the eighth night.
The increasing light symbolizes the growing miracle and the hope that endures even in darkness.
The Role of Darkness:
While the Menorah is not specifically about illuminating a dark room, it does carry a deeper message.
The darkness represents the spiritual and cultural oppression faced by the Jewish people during the Greek-Syrian rule.
Lighting the Menorah in the face of darkness symbolizes defiance, faith, and the persistence of Jewish identity even in challenging times.
In summary, the Menorah serves as a powerful reminder of hope, resilience, and the enduring light of faith. It’s a beautiful tradition that brings families together during Hanukkah, fostering a sense of unity and celebration. 🕎🕯️
You
what's this about a miracle with the lamp oil that lasted for days when it was supposed to run out?
Copilot
Certainly! Let me share the fascinating story of the miracle of the oil during Hanukkah:
The Background:
In the second century BCE, the Holy Land was under the oppressive rule of the Syrian-Greeks.
The Greeks attempted to suppress Jewish religious practices and impose their culture on the Jewish people.
The Holy Temple in Jerusalem was desecrated, and the Jews were forbidden from practicing their faith.
The Rededication of the Temple:
A small group of Jewish rebels, led by Judah the Maccabee, rose up against the mighty Greek army.
Miraculously, they defeated the Greeks and regained control of the Temple.
The Temple was in ruins, and its sacred menorah (the seven-branched candelabrum) needed to be relit.
The Miracle of the Oil:
When the Jews entered the Temple, they found only a single cruse (small container) of pure olive oil that had not been contaminated by the Greeks.
The menorah required a continuous supply of oil to burn throughout the day and night.
The small amount of oil they had was sufficient for only one day.
However, they decided to light the menorah anyway, trusting in divine providence.
The Unexpected Duration:
Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, allowing them to purify and rededicate the Temple.
This duration was long enough for new oil to be prepared under the proper ritual conditions.
The eight-day miracle became the central theme of Hanukkah.
The Symbolism:
The eight days of Hanukkah correspond to the miraculous duration of the oil.
Lighting the menorah symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, faith over oppression, and hope over despair.
It reminds us that even in challenging times, there is always a glimmer of light and hope.
So, during Hanukkah, Jews light the menorah for eight nights, adding one candle each night, to commemorate this remarkable miracle. The festival celebrates not only the military victory but also the enduring spiritual resilience of the Jewish people. 🕎🕯️
You
Seems like these guys have a really hard time with this "land", where they live, and there's always "trouble". I don't know about you, but instead of contiuing to hang out there.. I'd just go.. naw.. imma move to like where there's nobody. Lotsa room in like north Russia, or even here in north Canada. Why wouldn't they just move over somewhere else, instead of all this super ongoing trouble in that area, all the time?
Copilot
Indeed, the history of the Jewish people has been marked by struggles, displacement, and perseverance. Let’s explore some reasons why they haven’t simply picked up and moved elsewhere:
Historical Ties and Identity:
The Land of Israel holds immense historical and religious significance for Jews. It is the promised land mentioned in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh).
The Temple Mount, the Western Wall, and other sacred sites are located there.
For centuries, Jews have maintained a deep connection to this land, even during times of exile.
Cultural and Community Bonds:
Jewish communities have developed rich cultural, linguistic, and communal ties to the region.
The Hebrew language, Jewish customs, and traditions are deeply rooted in this land.
Despite challenges, Jews have continued to build vibrant communities and institutions.
Zionism and National Aspirations:
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of Zionism, a movement advocating for a Jewish homeland in Palestine.
The establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 fulfilled this dream for many Jews.
The idea of returning to their ancestral land has been a driving force for Jewish migration.
Challenges of Relocation:
Moving to a new country is complex and daunting. It involves leaving behind family, friends, and familiar surroundings.
Language barriers, cultural adjustments, and economic uncertainties can make relocation difficult.
Additionally, the Jewish diaspora is spread across the globe, and each community has its unique history and context.
Resilience and Survival:
Despite adversity, Jews have demonstrated remarkable resilience and a commitment to survival.
Throughout history, they have faced persecution, expulsion, and genocide (such as the Holocaust).
The determination to preserve Jewish identity and continuity has often outweighed the challenges.
Hope and Redemption:
Jewish tradition speaks of a future messianic era when peace and justice will prevail.
Many believe that the return to the Land of Israel is a step toward this redemption.
The ongoing struggles are seen as part of a larger narrative leading to a better world.
In summary, the Jewish connection to the land goes beyond practical considerations. It encompasses faith, history, and a vision of a better future. While challenges persist, the resilience of the Jewish people remains a testament to their enduring spirit. 🕊️🌍
You
I think you did have some people who got the hell outta there, though eh.. like around here we had like Hutteries, Mennonites.. these types of cultures that got outta there and came to some new land. Why'd they bail out? I think some got kicked out, like those orthodox eastern Europe type guys?
Copilot
Indeed, the migration of religious and cultural groups from their original homelands to new lands has been a recurring theme throughout history. Let’s explore the reasons behind the migration of Hutterites, Mennonites, and other similar communities:
Hutterites:
The Hutterites are a Christian communal group that traces its roots to the Radical Reformation in 16th-century Europe.
Origins: Named after their founder, Jakob Hutter, they emerged in the region of modern-day Austria.
Persecution: Hutterites faced intense persecution due to their beliefs, which included communal living, pacifism, and adult baptism.
Migration: Seeking religious freedom and safety, many Hutterites migrated to other parts of Europe (such as Moravia) and eventually to North America.
North American Settlement: In the late 19th century, Hutterites settled in North Dakota, followed by other states and provinces in the US and Canada.
Community Life: They continue to live in communal colonies, sharing resources, labor, and property. Their lifestyle emphasizes simplicity, agriculture, and strong community bonds.
Mennonites:
Mennonites are another group with Anabaptist origins, closely related to the Hutterites.
Origins: Founded by Menno Simons during the 16th century, Mennonites also faced persecution in Europe.
Beliefs: Mennonites emphasize nonviolence, adult baptism, and a simple lifestyle.
Migration Waves:
First Wave: In the 16th and 17th centuries, Mennonites migrated from Europe (especially the Netherlands and Germany) to escape religious persecution.
Second Wave: In the 19th century, Mennonites moved to North America (primarily the US and Canada) seeking agricultural opportunities and religious freedom.
Settlements: They established farming communities, often in rural areas, where they maintained their distinct culture and faith.
Variety: Mennonites are diverse, with various branches (such as Old Order, Conservative, and more liberal groups).
Reasons for Migration:
Religious Freedom: Both Hutterites and Mennonites sought freedom to practice their faith without fear of persecution.
Economic Opportunities: Many migrated for better economic prospects, especially in agriculture.
Community Bonds: The desire to maintain close-knit communities and preserve their distinct way of life motivated their migration.
Escape from War and Turmoil: Some Mennonites fled Europe during times of war (e.g., World War I and World War II).
Land Availability: North America offered vast, undeveloped land suitable for farming.
Orthodox Eastern European Jews:
Orthodox Jews from Eastern Europe (such as Poland, Russia, and Ukraine) faced pogroms, anti-Semitic violence, and economic hardship.
Migration: Many sought refuge in other countries, including the United States, Canada, and South America.
Urban Centers: They settled in urban centers, maintaining their religious practices, language (Yiddish), and cultural identity.
Contributions: Orthodox Jewish communities made significant contributions to the arts, sciences, and commerce in their adopted countries.
In summary, these migrations were driven by a combination of religious, economic, and safety considerations. The courage to leave their ancestral lands and build new lives elsewhere reflects their resilience and commitment to their faith and community. 🌎✨
[continued in comments]
[part 2 of 2]
You
And then, don't you get some of these guys.. like not sure which, but the Amish too.. they all sound like they used to live out there.. and seems a bit like they were misbehaving so they got kicked out. Like these types with multiple wives.
Copilot
Certainly! Let’s explore the migration history of the Amish and their reasons for leaving their European homeland:
Amish Origins:
The Amish trace their roots back to the Radical Reformation in 16th-century Europe. Impatient with the pace of the Protestant Reformation, young reformers in Zurich, Switzerland, baptized each other in 1525. This act was considered a crime punishable by death.
These radicals, known as Anabaptists, believed that baptism should be meaningful for adults who voluntarily confessed their faith. Facing persecution, thousands of Anabaptists were executed, and their story is recorded in the Martyrs Mirror.
Swiss Anabaptism and Migration:
Swiss Anabaptism took root in rural areas, emphasizing peace, love for enemies, and nonviolence.
By 1660, some Swiss Anabaptists migrated north to the Alsace region (now part of France) due to persecution.
In 1693, Swiss and South German Anabaptists split into two streams: Amish and Mennonite.
Jakob Ammann, an elder, sought to revitalize the movement. The Amish emerged as a distinct group.
Amish Migration to North America:
Seeking political stability and religious freedom, the Amish migrated to North America in two waves:
Mid-1700s: The first settlements were in southeastern Pennsylvania.
First Half of the 1800s: A second wave of migration occurred.
Reasons for Migration:
Land Issues: Some moved due to land availability and disputes.
Security Concerns: The French and Indian War prompted further migration.
Settlements: Many settled in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
Amish Today:
The Amish population continues to grow, doubling approximately every two decades.
They maintain their distinct lifestyle, including horse-drawn farm machinery, communal living, and distinctive dress.
While existing communities expand, new ones also form as members move to daughter settlements.
In summary, the Amish left their European homeland seeking religious freedom, safety, and a place where they could practice their faith without persecution. Their commitment to community, simplicity, and peace remains central to their way of life. 🌾🐎🏡
You
which are the types that have multiple wives.. some branch of all these guys, eh?
Copilot
Polygamy, the practice of having more than one spouse simultaneously, has been observed in various cultures and religious contexts. Let’s explore which religious groups permit or have practiced polygamy:
Christianity:
While most Christian groups uphold monogamy (one man with one wife) as the norm, some historical Christian communities have practiced polygamy.
Notable examples include certain Mormon sects in the 19th century, where polygamy was practiced. However, mainstream Christian denominations have rejected polygamy.
The New Testament does not explicitly endorse or forbid polygamy, leading to ongoing debates among Christians1.
Islam:
Polygyny (one man having multiple wives) is permitted in Islam under specific conditions.
The Quran allows a Muslim man to marry up to four wives, provided he treats them fairly and equitably.
Polyandry (one woman having multiple husbands) is not allowed in Islam.
Hinduism:
Hinduism does not universally endorse polygamy.
While monogamy is common, some Hindu texts mention polygamy, especially for kings and nobles.
The practice varies across different Hindu communities.
Indigenous Cultures:
Some Native American, Indigenous Australian, and Mongolian peoples historically practiced group marriage, where a nuclear family consists of multiple husbands and multiple wives.
These practices are specific to certain cultural contexts.
Other Contexts:
Polyandry (one woman with multiple husbands) is rare but has been observed in specific cultures, such as certain Tibetan communities.
Group marriages and other non-traditional family structures exist in various societies.
In summary, while polygamy is not universally practiced, it has historical and cultural roots in different religious and indigenous contexts. The acceptance or rejection of polygamy varies widely across traditions and communities. 🌍🤝
You
no, it was more like these amish, mennonite, hutterite type colonies where they'd have multiple wives.. I think it was in Alberta or something.
Copilot
Certainly! Let’s explore the Hutterite, Amish, and Mennonite communities in Alberta and their practices:
Hutterites:
Hutterites are a German-speaking religious group with a history spanning 400 years.
They originated in the Austrian Tyrol during the Reformation in the 16th century.
Distinctive Lifestyle:
Hutterites live communally. Each family has its own apartment, but meals are prepared in a central kitchen and eaten together.
They practice pacifism and avoid military service.
The colony looks after its members from birth to death.
Migration to Alberta:
About 100 years ago, Hutterites arrived in Alberta.
They purchased nearly 4,000 acres of land along the Rosebud River.
Today, there are approximately 180 Hutterite colonies in Alberta, with around 16,000 Hutterites living communally.
They contribute significantly to agriculture, producing eggs, pork, milk, and poultry1.
Amish and Mennonites:
Both the Amish and Mennonites have Anabaptist origins.
Amish:
The Amish emerged from the Swiss Anabaptist movement.
They migrated to North America seeking religious freedom and settled in Pennsylvania.
The Amish maintain a distinct lifestyle, including horse-drawn farm machinery and communal living.
Mennonites:
Mennonites also trace their roots to the Anabaptists.
They settled in North America seeking economic opportunities and religious freedom.
Mennonites vary widely in their practices, from conservative to more liberal groups.
Polygamy:
While polygamy is not a common practice among these groups, some historical Christian communities (including certain Mennonite sects) have practiced it.
However, mainstream Amish and Mennonite communities generally uphold monogamy.
Alberta
Alberta’s Hutterite Colonies:
Hutterite colonies are widely distributed throughout Alberta.
They are recognizable by their extensive barns, grain handling infrastructure, and secluded residential areas.
Hutterites continue to live communally, emphasizing shared resources and mutual support12.
In summary, while polygamy is not a common practice among the Amish, Mennonites, or Hutterites, each group has its unique traditions, beliefs, and contributions to the communities they inhabit. 🌾🏡🤝
You
might of been more in the US in that central west coast area.. some guy in one of these religious types, getting in trouble with buncha wives
Copilot
Certainly! There have been cases of religious leaders in North America who practiced polygamy, having multiple wives. Here are a couple of notable instances:
Winston Blackmore:
Background:
Winston Blackmore was the leader of a controversial polygamous religious community known as Bountiful.
Bountiful is based near Creston, British Columbia, Canada.
Polygamy Conviction:
In 2017, Winston Blackmore was convicted of practicing polygamy after a decades-long legal battle.
The evidence showed that he was married to 25 women simultaneously.
Blackmore’s religious beliefs included “celestial” marriages, which led to his multiple marriages.
His co-defendant, James Oler, was also found guilty of practicing polygamy with five wives in the same community.
Legal Implications:
The case raised questions about the constitutionality of Canada’s polygamy laws.
Both Blackmore and Oler faced a maximum penalty of five years in prison under Canadian law1.
Other Instances:
In the United States, there have been cases involving leaders of breakaway Mormon sects who practice polygamy.
These sects often have their bases in small communities near the Utah-Arizona border.
Warren Jeffs, considered the prophet and leader of one such group, was convicted of sexual assault and continues to lead from a Texas prison.
The mainstream Mormon church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) renounced polygamy in the late 19th century and does not endorse the fundamentalist group’s form of Mormonism1.
In summary, while polygamy is not common in mainstream North American religious communities, some breakaway sects and isolated groups have practiced it. Legal battles and constitutional debates continue to surround these cases. 🌟🤝.
You
yeah it was Bountiful.. that's it.. so what happened with this guy.. what religion were they?
Copilot
Winston Blackmore, born on August 25, 1956, is the leader of a polygamous Fundamentalist Latter Day Saint (FLDS) religious group in Bountiful, British Columbia, Canada.
He is described as “Canada’s best-known avowed polygamist”. Blackmore has 150 children with his 27 “spiritual” wives, some of whom he has admitted were underage1.
Here are the key points about Winston Blackmore and his religious background:
Religious Group: Winston Blackmore leads a polygamous community associated with the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS).
Bountiful, British Columbia
Bountiful, British Columbia: Bountiful is a religious community founded by Blackmore’s father, Ray Blackmore, and his older cousin, Harold Wooley Blackmore. Winston Blackmore was born to Ray and Anna Mae Blackmore in Bountiful.
Polygamy
Polygamy Conviction: In 2017, Winston Blackmore was found guilty of practicing polygamy in the British Columbia Supreme Court. He faced charges for having multiple wives simultaneously.
Legal Implications: Blackmore and another community leader, James Oler, were arrested and charged with polygamy. The case raised questions about the constitutionality of Canada’s polygamy laws123.
In summary, Winston Blackmore’s religious group is associated with the FLDS, and their practices include polygamy. Bountiful, where they reside, has been a focal point of legal battles surrounding polygamy in Canada. 🕊️🌟.
You
how come these guys are getting arrested because of the multiple wives?
Copilot
In many countries, polygamy (having multiple spouses simultaneously) is considered illegal. Here are some reasons why individuals practicing polygamy might face legal consequences:
Legal Codes and Norms:
Most legal systems are based on monogamy (one person married to one spouse at a time).
Polygamy violates these legal norms and can lead to criminal charges.
Social and Cultural Context:
While polygamy is accepted in some cultures and religious communities, it is often seen as unusual or deviant in others.
Legal systems reflect societal values and norms.
Gender Equality and Consent:
Concerns about gender equality arise in polygamous marriages.
Multiple wives may not have equal rights or autonomy.
Legal systems prioritize consent and individual rights.
Resource Distribution:
Polygamy can lead to inequitable distribution of resources (such as property, inheritance, and financial support).
Legal systems aim to ensure fairness and protect vulnerable parties.
Child Welfare:
In polygamous families, children may face complex family dynamics.
Legal systems consider the well-being of children and their access to care and support.
Criminal Charges:
Individuals practicing polygamy may be charged with bigamy (marrying multiple people while already married).
Penalties vary by jurisdiction but can include fines, imprisonment, or both.
Religious Freedom vs. Legal Boundaries:
Balancing religious freedom with legal boundaries is a challenge.
Some religious groups continue polygamous practices despite legal restrictions.
In summary, legal consequences for polygamy depend on local laws, cultural context, and individual circumstances. While some countries tolerate polygamy within specific religious or cultural contexts, others strictly enforce monogamy. 📜🤝.