The moon’s light is but a dim reflection of the sun that is only significant when
the sun sets. It waxes and wanes in a monthly cycle that forms the lunar calendar
necessary for the sanctification of the festivals.
The moon sings that it was created not for its own light, but rather to indicate
the meetings between Hashem and His nation. On a deeper level, the moon is
symbolic of the Jewish nation whose calendar is led by it. Like the moon, our
brilliance is only to the extent that we reflect Hashem’s light and teachings. Our
history therefore has ups and downs corresponding to our relationship with
Hashem. Although we all but disappeared when we were exiled, we will yet
wax to a full moon and radiate the world with Hashem’s light.

Inspirational commentary By Shmuel Ben-Tzion Kraines author of
The Song of Existence.