[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992-1993, Book II)]
[December 8, 1992]
[Page 2178]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Message on the Observance of Hanukkah
December 8, 1992

    I am delighted to send greetings to members of the Jewish community 
in the United States and around the world as you celebrate Hanukkah.
    As you commemorate the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem more 
than 2,000 years ago, you call to mind the many great spiritual and 
political struggles that have been borne by the Jewish people--a people 
of faith and resolve. When it burned miraculously for eight days instead 
of one, the small cruse of oil that was found in the reclaimed Temple by 
Judah Maccabee and his followers symbolized the power of prayer and the 
unfailing wisdom of the Almighty.
    Now, as you once again light the menorah, in keeping with centuries-
old Judaic law and tradition, know that countless others join with you 
in praying for peace and for the expansion of religious liberty and 
tolerance around the world. During this time of renewal, we pray 
especially that the Middle East peace talks will lead to a 
comprehensive, just, and lasting peace between Israel and her Arab 
neighbors.
    Barbara joins me in sending best wishes for a Happy Hanukkah.

                                                             George Bush

                    Note: This message was released by the Office of the 
                        Press Secretary on December 9.