In a recent statement, the Dean of Salisbury, The Very Rev Nicholas Papadopulos, expressed a surprising endorsement of tacky Christmas jumpers, suggesting that their festive frivolity could reflect a divine presence. This revelation comes from his booklet titled The Twelve Joys of Christmas, where he highlights both the serious and light-hearted aspects of the holiday season. Papadopulos states, “At Christmas we celebrate the divine becoming visible in the earthly. Isn’t it just possible that in this other stuff – this decidedly earthly stuff – we catch glimpses of the divine?”
This perspective raises an interesting question: What is the divine stance on Chanukah-themed garments? With the festival of lights approaching, the popularity of Chanukah jumpers has surged, mirroring the trend seen in Christmas attire. As an owner of vintage Christmas jumpers, I have found myself reflecting on the changing cultural significance of such apparel.
In the UK, Christmas jumpers have become synonymous with the holiday season. Events like Christmas Jumper Day are celebrated in schools and workplaces, with jumpers featuring a wide array of festive designs, including reindeer, snowflakes, and even dinosaurs. Papadopulos notes their ubiquitous nature, describing them as “unavoidable” and filled with “puddings, stars, penguins, snowmen and even dinosaurs.”
Chanukah jumpers, on the other hand, are often characterized by their gaudy designs, showcasing menorahs, stars of David, and playful slogans like “I love you a latke.” While the Jewish population comprises only 0.2 percent of the global demographic, the market for Chanukah merchandise has expanded significantly, largely due to popular culture and consumerism.
For those hesitant about contributing to fast fashion, there are options for finding secondhand Chanukah apparel through platforms such as Vinted and eBay. This approach allows individuals to participate in the festive spirit without exacerbating environmental concerns. Despite Papadopulos’s assertion that “God is tasteless … without a shred of cultural or aesthetic judgment,” many, including myself, remain indifferent to wearing these novelty knits, even when secondhand.
Artist Alex Woz is challenging the conventional Chanukah merchandise landscape. In a recent Instagram post, Woz critiqued the portrayal of Chanukah as a shallow alternative to Christmas. He expressed a desire for merchandise that reflects the true spirit of Chanukah, stating, “The reality is, Chanukah isn’t love and light, it’s f***ing metal.”
Woz has launched a collection aimed at “spreading some of that real Chanukah spirit.” His first release features a grey long-sleeved T-shirt with a striking design: a sword plunged into a jagged mountain landscape, with the word “Maccabim” in Hebrew and the phrase “Defending the homeland.” This design stands in stark contrast to the typical festive wear, suggesting a deeper connection to the historical significance of Chanukah.
As the holiday approaches, many may find themselves contemplating their wardrobe choices. While I consider purchasing one of Woz’s unique designs, I plan to consult with my rabbi first. As the conversation around holiday attire continues, it is evident that the intersection of culture, faith, and fashion remains a lively topic of discussion.
