Editing Mivtza Chanukah (section)

== History ==

==== The Beginning at Assaf Harofeh ====
Following the Six-Day War, in Chanukah 5728 (1967), Chabad Chassidim led by Rabbi Shneur Zalman Segal initiated Mivtza Chanukah at Assaf Harofeh Hospital. The campaign was managed by Rabbi Segal, who collected funds from Kfar Chabad residents, and throughout the days of Chanukah, the Chassidim and Tmimim illuminated the hospital rooms with the light of Chanukah. Rabbi Segal wrote a detailed report to the Rebbe and received an encouraging response with additional instructions to coordinate with Tzeirei Chabad next time.

==== Mivtza Chanukah in the IDF ====
In 5733 (1972), an extensive Mivtza Chanukah was conducted among IDF soldiers. The campaign achieved great success and was publicized in the media.

==== Momentum for the Campaign ====
In 5734 (1973), the Rebbe launched a special momentum for Mivtza Chanukah. On Shabbat Parshat Vayeshev, he encouraged increased efforts to ensure that every Jewish home would light Chanukah candles. That year, the Rebbe distributed Chanukah gelt only to those who participated in Mivtza Chanukah and presented confirmation from Tzeirei Agudas Chabad. During that Chanukah farbrengen, he instructed those who participated in Mivtza Chanukah to say l'chaim. The Rebbe also sent Chanukah gelt to the Holy Land for those involved in Mivtza Chanukah.

That same year, he instructed as a temporary directive that girls should also light Chanukah candles.
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==== Success Beyond Expectation ====
In 5747 (1986), following the Seforim case, the Rebbe called for enhancing the campaign and instructed the publication of a book compiling photographs of campaign activities from all Shluchim worldwide. The Rebbe remarked that the success that year was "beyond expectation." As a result, the book "Vayehi Ohr" was published by Kehot.