“[On Shabbat and Yom Tov] we join the Shekhina (Divine immanence) in her ascent [into higher worlds ] as we also withdraw from the world [by keeping Shabbat and Yom Tov].

But Chanukka is different. [While on] Shabbat and Yom Tov…the Shekhina detaches from the earthly plane and ascends to the spiritual realms,… On Chanukka, says the Ari, the opposite occurs. HKBH comes down and meets the Shekhina on her turf.

…these yamei Chanukka are the only days of the year where the Shekhina and HKBH meet and match [in] a union here enabled by HKBH coming down (so to speak) and infusing the below with His full Presence.

Just as eyes are windows to the soul, so the Chanukka lights are windows into the soul of the chag, and the profound union of Shekhina and HKBH that happens in these days, down here below, on the inner planes. Hence the custom to meditate on our candles for half an hour after lighting them.”