One difference between Purim and Chanukah is that on Purim, they tried to kill us physically, while on Chanukah, they tried to kill us spiritually. Therefor, many have the custom to learn more Torah on Chanukah and indulge in more spiritual activity since that is what they tried to defeat us with and failed!
Here is a nice idea that I read in a book called “Eretz Yisrael on the Parsha” by Rabbi Moshe Lichtman. Sit down next to your candles and sufganiyot (donuts) and enjoy! The Gemara in Arachin 10a-b, discusses multiple reasons why we recite hallel on Chanukah and not on Purim. One reason R’ Yitzchak explains, is that we do not say hallel on miracles that happened outside the land of Israel (anymore). Why should that make a difference where the miracle happened? A miracle is a miracle and that should be praised for! The Maharsha gives a beautiful answer: Hashem is directly involved in the affairs of Eretz Yisrael. Outside of Israel, the divine providence is through angels, while in Israel Hashem Himself oversees. The miracles of Chanukah were a direct result of Hashems divine intervention, they were on “His turf”. The miracles of Purim, however, were accomplished through angelic intermediaries sent by G-d. It is only fitting to say Hallel on miracles that G-d Himself performs.
Realize how blessed you are, to be so much closer to G-d, here in Eretz Yisrael. When the struggle is real and you call out to your Father for help, He answers not through any intermediary. His involvement in your life is direct hashgacha pratit- divine intervention. What a privilege it is for us to be living in the land where the miracles of Chanukah and the miracles that occur in our everyday lives are directly from G-d Himself!
Chanukah Sameach!
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