The haftarah of Behaalotkha is taken from the writings of the prophet Zechariah, the second through fourth chapters of the prophet's writings. It is also the haftarah of the Shabbat of Hanukkah. The theme of the haftarah is the spiritual survival of the Jewish people. The theme of the menorah unites the Torah reading of Behaalotkha with the reading from Zechariah. The light of the menorah represents the light of Jewish faith that has survived throughout the ages.

The prophet Zechariah envisions the kohen gadol, the high priest, Joshua. Joshua is dressed in filthy garments. However, the divine messenger tells Joshua to disrobe and dress in beautiful new clothes. The messenger speaks of G-d's power of redemption to the High Priest. The Shoot, assumed to be Zerubavel, the political leader of Judah, will restore Jewish rule in the kingdom of Judah. On that day, every person will sit under his vine and fig tree.

The prophet Zechariah shares a second, beautiful vision of peace. The messenger from G-d shares a portrait of a menorah (a seven-branched candelabrum) surrounded by two olive trees. The trees represent the spiritual leadership of Joshua and the political power of Zerubavel. The olive trees are also a symbol of peace. The vision represents the triumph of Judaism. The prophet hears the word of G-d. "Not by might, nor by power, but by My spirit, says the L-rd of hosts." This sentence has asserted that Israel will survive through the strength of its faith. It has given strength to Jews throughout the ages as we have suffered hatred and persecution. It continues to give us strength at this difficult time for our brothers and sisters in Israel.