And thus the latest chapter of the Star Wars saga is upon us. But lo, ‘tis not yet The Rise of Skywalker, but The Rise of Maccabee, a Star Wars Hanukkah!
In this beautifully orchestrated piece, the highly acclaimed a capella group, Six13, has given the Star Wars universe a welcome influence of Judaism. Beautifully arranged with some of the most recognizable Star Wars themes, Six13 has musically intertwined the saga’s tales with the tale of Judah Maccabee, who ages ago led his kinsman to revolt and uphold Jewish traditions against the oppressive Greek emperor, Antiochus. And upon this victory, upon the re-dedication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, the commemorative holiday, the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah was celebrated.
With this story, we’re reminded that the holiday season is shared by peoples of all backgrounds and faiths. We’re reminded of the commonality of the Star Wars story, whose themes of the suppressed finding it within themselves to gain freedom from a superior power have been a running constant throughout history. And we recall that the origins and influence of Star Wars spread across vast cultures. Mythology, whether rooted in the factual, the fantastical, or religious, bind the human experience together.
And thus it is with Stars Wars.
The saga was created for all of us, because in essence, it is about all of us.
You may also like: Sand People: A Star Wars Musical Parody
And what better way to celebrate this than to enjoy Six13’s lighthearted and beautifully crafted tribute to the origins of one of their most celebrated holidays, and the release of The Rise of Skywalker.
We appreciate their contribution, and marvel at the talent, for these pieces are impressively comprised of nothing but human voices (well, I thought I heard a Rodian in the background there, but I’ll let the humans in Six13 take all the credit for now…).
So sit back and enjoy a few minutes of singing, and share in tradition. After all, that’s what it’s all about.
Mazel tov! Oh, and MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU.
“Anchored by a strong Jewish identity and driven by a mission to connect Jews around the globe with their heritage through music, professional Jewish a cappella group Six13 are the originators of today’s Jewish a cappella sound. They’ve performed to rave reviews at the White House for Barack and Michelle Obama, and millions more at synagogues, religious schools, JCCs, fundraising events, B’nai Mitzvah and private affairs alike, received numerous awards for their seven best-selling CDs, and been selected as finalists for casting in NBC’s “The Sing-Off”. To find out more about bringing Six13 to your community for an event that’s truly unforgettable, visit six13.com.”
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker opens in theaters December 20.
