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There is an inherent lesson as to what constitutes true beauty in the eyes of God and we learn this from the very special Etrog (citron fruit) which is waved together with the Lulav each year on the Jewish holiday of Sukkot. In Leviticus 23:40, God instructs the people to take a "beautiful tree", in Hebrew "Hadar". Explains the Talmud, the word "dar" is close to the English word "endure" and therefore must apply to a fruit which perseveres against the odds. Though many fruits are seasonal, only the Etrog endures throughout the year, growing and blossoming throughout all seasons, hot and cold. Its persistence and determination to thrive is what makes the fruit truly beautiful. Similarly, the olive oil used in the Menorah of the Temple, once beaten, pressed and purified, gives off what the Bible describes as an eternal light (Leviticus 24:2), and has, as well, become a symbol of endurance throughout the generations. Just like the Etrog and olive oil represent fortitude, so too the people of Israel will continue to rise above the cruelty of her enemies and will forever magnificently shine brighter than ever.
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