Inspiring Songs and Resources for a New Generation
At a time when the world needs new sources of inspiration, Chanukah Anew brings original songs and educational materials to Jewish families, synagogues, and music educators.
Chanukah Anew ~ Arts & Education Project launched in 2024 with the release of As We Dream of Peace. Dreams of peace are even more important this year as humanity continues to struggle with war and violence.
We’re proud to announce our new album, Not By Might, setting to music a beloved Hebrew Bible verse which is read in synagogues across the world on Chanukah:
Not by might, not by power, but through My Spirit!
Our transformative project reframes Chanukah from the story of an ancient conflict to a celebration of nature, family, community, and peace. For over 25 years, Rabbi Naomi Steinberg has shared her Chanukah teachings from her home on the Redwood Coast of Northern California.
“Living in the forest, beyond the reach of light pollution, the long, dark winter nights brings the spirit of Chanukah to life. It’s a time for reflection, connection, and envisioning a peaceful world”
This wisdom, rooted in nature and community, shapes the heart of Chanukah Anew. We explore the balance of light and darkness—a theme often overlooked in mainstream celebrations—by encouraging deeper reflection on natural cycles, spiritual traditions, and cultural diversity.
Popular culture tends to extol light and disparage darkness, contributing to racial prejudice and negative attitudes toward wilderness. Drawing on traditional and contemporary mystical insights, Chanukah Anew invites us to think beyond binary categories, exploring the interplay of light and dark that is essential to human spirituality and the natural world we call home.
Chanukah Anew will bring Rabbi Naomi’s songs and teachings to millions of families and schoolchildren worldwide. In addition to beautiful recordings, it will offer free or low-cost educational resources, including a digital songbook and school curricula, all accessible through an open-access website. These materials offer fresh perspectives for both Jewish and non-Jewish educators, emphasizing appreciation of the winter season, the warmth of family, and the pursuit of peace.
With engaging curriculum materials, Chanukah Anew promotes positive representations of Jewish culture, fostering inclusivity, reducing stereotyping, and helping prevent antisemitic attitudes from taking root in young minds.
We are thrilled to announce the release of the first four musical offerings in 2025 in time for Chanukah.
Amazing Chanukah Candles!
Hidden Light
My Dreidl/When We Love Each Other
Not By Might
In the Winter Sky