As the sun sets on the eve of Tisha B’Av, my heart feels the weight of this solemn day. Tisha B’Av resonates deeply with every Jew as we mourn the destruction of the two Temples in Jerusalem, the expulsion from Spain, and countless other tragedies, including the Holocaust. Now, as if history itself were repeating, Iran and Hezbollah have chosen this day to threaten Israel, using its significance to try to break our spirit.
This isn’t just a military threat; it’s psychological warfare aimed straight at our hearts, intended to fill us with fear and doubt. But as I reflect on this, I’m reminded of the story of David and Goliath. David, a young shepherd, stood before the giant Goliath with nothing but a slingshot, unafraid. While everyone else cowered in fear, David saw the giant for what he was—a bully he could defeat. And he did, with a single stone. The Talmud also teaches that the mightiest can be undone by the smallest. These stories remind us that even the smallest act of courage can make all the difference.
This year, I’m observing Tisha B’Av here in the Land of Israel—the place our ancestors longed for and the place I now call home. There’s something deeply profound about being in this land. Walking through the hills and valleys mentioned in our sacred texts makes the connection feel immediate and real. These are the same landscapes where David fought Goliath, Jeremiah, and Isaiah walked and prophesied. The words of our sacred texts, which we read year after year, take on a new resonance when you live where these events unfolded.
Last night, I attended a gathering at Rabbi Katz’s synagogue in Efrat. Despite the somberness of the day, the evening felt warm and comforting. We began with a light supper on the rooftop, sharing food and conversation. As the sky turned dusky pink over the hills of Judea, there was a sense of unity—a quiet strength from being together during these challenging times. Later, we moved inside for prayers, talks, and songs.
Hearing Rabbi David Aaron speak about the soul’s journey on Tisha B’Av gave me a new perspective on the day—not just as a time of mourning but as one of deep spiritual significance. Rabbi Dr. Yosef Bronstein then shared the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s view on Tisha B’Av, speaking about the seed of redemption found even in our deepest sorrow. It’s a powerful reminder that Tisha B’Av is not only about our losses but also about the hope we carry and the belief that we can and will rebuild from these ashes.
As we enter Tisha B’Av tonight, I hold onto that hope. Yes, the threats are real, and the pain of our history runs deep, but so does our resilience. Like David, we face our challenges with courage, knowing that sometimes the smallest, most unexpected actions can have the greatest impact. We are one people with one heart, and our unity is our greatest strength.
May this Tisha B’Av bring us closer to healing and redemption, and may we soon see the day when our mourning turns to joy.
My trip to Israel in October unfolded in ways I could never have anticipated. What began as a joyful celebration quickly became a testament to the complex realities facing the Jewish community during the Simchat Torah festival—a time symbolizing renewal and hope as we complete the annual Torah readings and embark on a new cycle.
On October 7, I attended my nephew Rabbi Yair Silverman’s synagogue to celebrate Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. This day marks the culmination of the Rosh Hashanah-Yom Kippur-Sukkot season, celebrating the Torah and its teachings. The joy was palpable as we completed the readings of The Five Books of Moses and began the story of Genesis, symbolizing the world’s creation anew.
Before the service began, Rabbi Silverman shared the unsettling news that Israel was under attack. He offered everyone the option to leave for safety; however, we chose to stay and continue with the service. The day combined extraordinary joy with a profound sense of resolve as we gathered again at 6 p.m. for the scheduled talk and closing service.
As the evening progressed, the gravity of the situation became clearer—Israel was engaged in conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Rabbi Silverman received a call from a colleague in Tel Aviv, sharing that a couple planning to marry the next day in Zichron Yaakov insisted on proceeding with their wedding. Inspired by the rabbinic teaching to not delay joyous occasions even in adversity, their decision underscored our community’s ability to find light amid darkness.
A Joyous Wedding Amidst Adversity
Rabbi Silverman and our congregation organized a beautiful wedding for the young couple the following day. Despite the conflict, the bride’s family and friends gathered at our small synagogue, and our community, spanning generations, joined in the celebration. As is customary at Jewish weddings, even strangers were welcomed to share joy. I was fortunate to capture these moments on video, and the family graciously allowed me to share these cherished memories.
Return to Jerusalem and Changing Realities
After the wedding celebration, reality set in as I returned to my Jerusalem apartment. The usually ninety-minute drive from Zichron Yaakov felt different this time. My phone buzzed continuously with updates from various WhatsApp groups, revealing rapidly changing circumstances. Discussions ranged from cancellations to preparations for what lay ahead. My pilates group was already planning the next class, striving to maintain normalcy amidst the chaos.
I had tickets for an eagerly awaited concert by Ishay Ribo, whose soulful interpretations of biblical texts resonate deeply with many, including me. Scheduled for October 8 at Jerusalem’s Binyanei HaUma, the concert was cancelled, along with many other events. While I felt disappointed, watching one of Ribo’s previous performances on YouTube brought some comfort, especially when he sang “Modeh Ani,” a prayer of gratitude for the new day.
Preparation and Community Response
Back in Jerusalem, we received government instructions to prepare for uncertain times ahead, including stocking up on water, food, flashlights, and transistor radios for our bomb shelters. My friend Sarah Kraft and I went to the mall to gather supplies. We faced an unexpected challenge when we found that transistor radios were in short supply, but a nearby cell phone shop had the last two radios available.
The sense of community was evident everywhere. People across Israel united to ensure that soldiers and civilians had essential resources. Some collected protective gear and ammunition, while others prepared meals for the 300,000 reservists called up on short notice. There was also abundant spiritual support, with groups organizing communal singing, dancing, and Torah classes, both in-person and online. “Tzitzit,” symbolic fringed garments, were crafted and offered to any soldier who wanted them, symbolizing a meaningful connection to our shared faith.
In my Jerusalem residence, we are fortunate to have a bomb shelter. However, Sarah, who lives in a building without one, faced a tough decision. We had to plan for an uncertain future. Despite having a pre-scheduled flight back to Montreal on October 12, all international flights from Tel Aviv were cancelled except those operated by El Al. After consulting my travel agent, I purchased an El Al ticket to Zurich, hoping Air Canada would honour my original ticket to Montreal. Before leaving, I entrusted Sarah with the keys to my apartment to access the shelter if needed.
Returning to Montreal
Returning to Montreal felt surreal. I was deeply grateful to be invited to my cousins’ home for dinner on Friday night, a comforting ritual that grounded me after such an intense week. I attended Shabbat services at my usual synagogue with Rabbi Poupko the following morning. The familiarity of the service was a balm to my soul, although it included an additional prayer for hostages and a moving rendition of Hatikvah, Israel’s national anthem. The words of Hatikvah, meaning “The Hope,” resonated with our ancient yearning for freedom and sovereignty in our homeland.
Reuniting with my community brought profound relief and joy. We shared our experiences and the challenges we faced since the conflict began. Many in our tight-knit community have family and friends in Israel, and some have connections to those who have tragically lost their lives.
That night, we began a new tradition—gathering weekly for an additional prayer service to recite Psalms/Tehillim. This cherished Jewish tradition provides comfort and strength during difficult times, and our community has embraced it wholeheartedly. We listen to comforting words from our rabbis and recite our designated psalms together.
“On that dark Shabbat of Simchat Torah, when our son went to war, I was overwhelmed with fear and sorrow. With no other way to cope, I cried and recited Tehillim from beginning to end until my tears dried. The Psalms echoed my anguish, giving voice to my fears. Just as Jews have prayed in times of distress throughout history, these prayers continue to speak to us today, guiding us towards redemption.”¹
Our rabbis and community leaders remind us of the importance of participating in meaningful actions through military service, support from home, or dedicated prayer. They encourage us to deepen our commitment to mitzvot, righteous actions, and sincere prayer.
Recently, rabbis in Israel called for a three-day communal fast inspired by the story of Queen Esther during Purim. This fast recalls a pivotal moment when Haman threatened the Jewish community in Shushan, now part of Iran. Before her crucial meeting with King Ahashverosh, Esther asked her people to join her in fasting for three days to seek guidance and support. This collective act highlights the strength found in community unity during challenging times.
On Sunday, October 15, we observed Rosh Chodesh, marking the start of a new month. A few years ago, women in Montreal began a unique tradition of holding an all-female Rosh Chodesh service. Whenever I’m in Montreal, I prioritize attending this gathering. This particular service was especially meaningful as we celebrated the Bat Mitzvah of a young girl turning 12—a significant milestone in Jewish life. Witnessing her recite the Torah portion with confidence was both inspiring and emotional. The celebration involved collaboration among her classmates, friends, and family, making it a memorable occasion.
How the Jewish Community Responds
Throughout history, the Jewish community has shown remarkable resilience and solidarity in adversity. In Montreal, the Federation CJA leads efforts to support those in need with an annual fundraising campaign that unites the community. This year, our focus shifted to raising urgent funds for the ongoing war effort, bringing us together in unprecedented ways.
Last week, I attended a fundraising concert featuring Montreal’s beloved Jewish entertainers, including Milena Kartowski’s breathtaking rendition of “Stand by Me,” which left a lasting impression on everyone present.
Our enduring traditions, commitment to Torah study, and alignment with Torah principles have been our foundation through prosperous and challenging times. This consistency in Jewish practice is crucial as we support Israel in its existential struggle for survival. Whether within or outside Israel, we are united in our pursuit of the common good, striving for the recovery of our captives and the elimination of threats to ensure our people’s safety.
A Prayer for Peace and Hope
Miracles happen when we confront evil with unwavering resolve. As individuals and as a community, we are called upon to contribute to the greater good. We pray earnestly for this day to come soon, swiftly, and in our lifetime.
Hazan Mutlu of Central Synagogue in NYC has recorded a prayer that resonates with those facing adversity, wherever they may be—on land or at sea:
“May the One who blessed our ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, bless and protect all who strive for peace and security in Israel and beyond. May the Almighty grant healing, strength, and comfort as we stand together in solidarity.”
In this spirit, we affirm the message of Am Yisrael Chai—the people of Israel live.
Norman Lebrecht’s Genius and Anxiety: How Jews Changed the World, 1847-1947, offers an insightful look at influential Jewish individuals and their significant impact on the world. His writing flows seamlessly from one story to the next, creating an intimate reading experience as if you’re conversing with him about these remarkable figures.
The book challenges common Jewish stereotypes, examining individuals who have contributed significantly to the arts and sciences. While familiar names like Marx, Freud, Einstein, Kafka, Gershwin, and Bernstein take center stage, Lebrecht highlights lesser-known figures whose achievements deserve recognition.
Lebrecht brings these historical figures to life by drawing on diaries and letters, immersing readers in their world and personal experiences.
Unveiling Influential Figures
Beyond well-known figures, Genius and Anxiety showcases remarkable contributions, such as the invention of the first contraceptive pill, advancements in blood transfusions, the discovery of DNA, and early cancer detection methods. By weaving these milestones with personal narratives, Lebrecht illustrates the lasting impact of Jewish innovators.
Resilient Journeys
Lebrecht’s exploration extends beyond 1947, delving into the journeys of Jews who fled to America, Israel, and even China during World War II. As the war intensified and the Nazi regime tightened its grip, Jews faced harrowing choices. Some sought refuge in America, contributing to its vibrant cultural and intellectual landscape, while others relocated to Israel, then under British mandate, shaping the emerging state. A few found temporary sanctuary in China, navigating its unique challenges.
More than recounting escape routes, Lebrecht immerses readers in personal stories of bravery and resilience. These journeys were not just physical escapes; they marked transitions into new worlds of intellectual and cultural discovery. Despite immense hardships, these individuals continued influencing their new communities with their unique talents and perspectives.
Norman Lebrecht’s meticulous research and engaging narrative offer a fresh perspective on these historical events. Genius and Anxiety complements Amos Elon’s The Pity of It All: A Portrait of Jews in Germany, 1743–1933, enriching our understanding of Jewish history and its profound impact on today’s world.
Many cherish Hanukkah, a holiday filled with the comforting smell of latkes, the lively clatter of dreidel games, and the warm, inviting glow of the menorah. While the story of the Maccabees’ brave revolt against the Greeks is well-known, a lesser-known chapter in Hanukkah’s history adds a profound layer of meaning to this beloved holiday.
A Meeting of Legends: A Glimpse into the Past
In the ancient city of Jerusalem, as dawn’s first light softly embraced the city, an extraordinary encounter unfolded. Alexander the Great’s formidable army approached the city gates, but instead of a confrontation, something remarkable happened. The High Priest, adorned in resplendent garments that shimmered in the early morning light, led a procession of priests through Jerusalem’s narrow, winding streets. Holding torches aloft, their faces reflected a blend of solemnity and hope. To everyone’s astonishment, Alexander dismounted his chariot and bowed before the High Priest—a gesture of respect that would become one of the most captivating episodes in Jerusalem’s rich tapestry of history.
The Maccabees: Who Were They?
To truly appreciate Hanukkah, it’s essential to delve into the story of the Maccabees, a group of Jewish rebels who lived during the 2nd century BCE. Led by Judah Maccabee and his brothers, who hailed from a priestly family in Judea (modern-day Israel), the Maccabees were fierce defenders of their faith and heritage. Their name, “Maccabee,” is believed to derive from the Hebrew word for “hammer,” symbolizing their strength and resilience. They led a revolt against the Seleucid Empire, a Greek dynasty that ruled much of the Near East, including Judea.
175 BCE: Strife, Division, and Triumph
Fast forward to 175 BCE, a period marked by intense strife and division among the Greeks. Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the ruler of the northern Greek faction, launched an invasion of Judea. His actions, heavily influenced by the Hellenizing Jewish faction in Jerusalem, plunged the region into turmoil. As the historian Flavius Josephus records:
“The king being there to disposed, complied with them, and came upon the Jews with a great army, and took their city by force, and slew a great multitude of those that favored Ptolemy, and sent out his soldiers to plunder them without mercy; he also spoiled the temple, and put a stop to the constant practice of offering a daily sacrifice of expiation for three years and six months.” ¹
This Hellenizing faction embraced Greek culture and ideas, causing deep divisions within the Jewish community. They supported the imposition of Greek customs in Jerusalem and transformed the Temple into a center for Greek worship. This cultural and religious erosion threatened the very essence of Jewish identity and faith, setting the stage for the Maccabees’ revolt—a struggle to preserve Jewish practices and beliefs.
The Maccabees’ Resistance: A Struggle for Identity
Amidst the darkness of these times, the Maccabees’ bravery shone brightly. Their miraculous victory over the Seleucid Empire was a triumph of military might and a testament to divine intervention and unwavering faith. The Maccabees fought to restore Jewish religious practices that had been outlawed and to cleanse and rededicate the desecrated Temple in Jerusalem. This rededication is at the heart of Hanukkah, a holiday that celebrates physical and spiritual victories.
The Heart of Hanukkah: Celebrating Miracles with ‘Al Hanissim’
One of the most cherished aspects of Hanukkah is the singing of “Al Hanissim” after lighting the menorah. This song, far more than just a festive tune, captures the essence of the holiday. It celebrates the miraculous victory of the Maccabees, attributing their success to divine intervention rather than mere military prowess.
“You delivered the strong into the hands of the weak, the many into the hands of the few, the impure into the hands of the pure, the wicked into the hands of the righteous, and the insolent into the hands of those who engage in Your Torah.” ²
This beautiful prayer reflects on the rededication of the Temple and the revival of the Jewish faith, reminding us of the strength, courage, and devotion that define our heritage.
From Hellenistic Culture to Jewish Resilience: The Lasting Impact
Even in the wake of their victory, the influence of Hellenistic culture did not vanish overnight. A century later, the Romans—heirs to Greek traditions—came to control Judea after King Herod’s death. The destruction of the Grand Temple in 70 AD marked the beginning of a long and painful period of Jewish exile. Some rabbis even debated whether Hanukkah should continue to be observed after this tragic event. Yet, voices like that of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks argued for preserving the holiday, viewing it as a symbol of resilience and hope:
“Hanukkah is not just a celebration of a past victory but a reminder of the enduring power of hope and faith.” ³
A Light for Future Generations
Hanukkah is more than a celebration of past victories; it’s a testament to the enduring strength and faith of the Jewish people. It’s about keeping the light of hope alive for future generations, no matter the challenges we face.
As you light the menorah this Hanukkah, take a moment to reflect on the strength and resilience of those who came before us. Let their courage inspire you to bring light into your life and share that with others. How will you keep the spirit of Hanukkah alive in your daily life?
To capture the spirit of Hanukkah, this acapella video beautifully encapsulates the uplifting message of the holiday.
FOOTNOTES:
Josephus, Flavius. The Antiquities of the Jews. Translated by William Whiston, Project Gutenberg, 2008, www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/2848.
Purim commemorates the rescue of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Hebrew Bible’s Book of Esther. The story involves a Persian official named Haman, who seeks to exterminate the Jewish population of Persia. However, his plans are foiled by Esther, a Jewish queen, and her cousin Mordecai.
The story of Purim serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of antisemitism and the abuse of power. It highlights the risks of discrimination and prejudice and shows the devastating impact when these harmful mindsets influence those in power. The holiday is observed with readings of the Book of Esther, joyous gatherings, and charitable contributions, providing an opportunity to reflect on its deep moral and historical importance.
The Salvation of the Jews: How Mordechai and Esther Foiled Haman’s Plot in Ancient Persia
Haman, the second-in-command to King Ahasuerus of the Persian Empire, persuaded the king to issue a decree that would lead to the killing of all Jews living in the 127 lands of the Persian Empire. However, his evil plan was thwarted by Mordechai and Esther, whose courage and strategic actions saved their people. The entire story is recounted in the Megillah, or the Scroll of Esther, read annually in Jewish homes and synagogues worldwide.
“When Haman saw that Mordechai would neither kneel nor prostrate himself before him, Haman became full of wrath. But it seemed contemptible to him to lay hands on Mordechai alone, for they had told him Mordechai’s nationality, and Haman sought to destroy all the Jews who were throughout Ahasuerus’s entire kingdom, Mordechai’s people.”
Haman said to King Ahasuerus:
“There is a certain people scattered and separate among the peoples throughout all the provinces of your kingdom, and their laws differ from [those of] every people, and they do not keep the king’s laws; it is [therefore] of no use for the king to let them be. If it pleases the king, let it be written to destroy them, and I will weigh out ten thousand silver talents into the hands of those who perform the work to bring [it] into the king’s treasuries.”
The king took the ring off his hand, gave it to Haman, and said to him:
“The silver is given to you and the people to do to them as it pleases you.”
Understanding Prejudice: The Resilience and Targeting of the Jewish Community
Haman’s actions reflect a timeless pattern of targeting Jews based on lies and misconceptions—patterns that have persisted throughout history. Prejudice often stems from personal biases and assumptions rather than facts. Jews, known for coexisting with diverse civilizations for over two thousand years, have faced discrimination despite their commitment to societal laws and values, including respect for authority.
Many biases are based on stereotypes that inaccurately paint all group members with the same brush. This leads to harmful misconceptions, allowing prejudice to thrive. The Jewish community has been frequently targeted due to financial motives and misinformation, a narrative that echoes from Haman’s era to modern times.
Purim’s Universal Message Against Discrimination
While Purim specifically commemorates Jewish survival, its themes resonate universally. The story underscores resilience against persecution and serves as a narrative that mirrors the experiences of many minority groups, including Black people, Indigenous populations, immigrants, and other ethnic minorities. Discrimination’s destructive impact is a shared human experience, emphasizing the importance of confronting hatred in all its forms.
“You have got to be taught to hate and fear. You have got to be carefully taught.”
The Roots of Nazi Antisemitism and Modern Prejudice
Haman’s hatred found echoes in history, most notably in Nazi antisemitism. The Nazis falsely accused Jews of plotting against Germany, blaming them for the country’s defeat in World War I. Despite their service and sacrifice—100,000 Jews served in the German military during World War I—their loyalty was met with suspicion and violence.
Historical myths like the Protocols of the Elders of Zion, a fabricated text claiming Jewish control over global finances, have fueled dangerous stereotypes. These ideas have no basis in reality yet continue to influence modern antisemitic narratives. The consequences are seen in ongoing slanders against Jews, accusations against prominent figures, and baseless conspiracy theories about Jewish control.
Deborah Lipstadt, a scholar of genocide and the Holocaust, explains how antisemitism operates differently from other forms of racism:
“The racist ‘punches down’ and loathes persons of colour because they are apparently ‘lesser than’ the white person… In contrast, the antisemite’ punches up.’ The Jew is supposedly more powerful, ingenious, and financially adept than the non-Jew. Neither of these is true; they separate and isolate one group from the other.”
These historical patterns underline the persistent need to combat prejudice, not only against Jews but against all marginalized groups.
Lessons from the Megillah Text and the Joy of Purim Celebration
The Megillah offers insights into social dynamics and human behaviour, portraying characters with varied motivations and moralities. These timeless lessons continue to inspire us and remind us of the importance of standing up against discrimination.
Above all, Purim is a celebration of resilience. Today, we dress in costumes, exchange gifts, give to the poor, and come together in joy and solidarity. It is a day to reflect on our shared humanity and the enduring fight against hate.
The story of Mordechai and Esther reminds us of the ongoing threats of antisemitism and the abuse of power. As we celebrate Purim, let us commit to standing against all forms of injustice, ensuring that our communities remain strong and resilient in the face of adversity.
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, takes us on a spiritual journey of tradition, introspection, and hope. In the synagogue, a four-hour ceremony unfolds, where the resounding blasts of the shofar—a hollowed-out ram’s horn—are sounded at key moments throughout the service. These powerful blasts create a sacred atmosphere filled with reverence and devotion, inviting participants to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. However, conveying the joy and depth of this celebration to those unfamiliar with it can be a challenge.
As we immerse ourselves in these ancient prayers, which have endured for millennia, we discover deeper insights into the human condition. Rosh Hashanah encourages us to pause, seek blessings for the year ahead, and recognize the struggles we all face in life. This dual focus on hope and reality resonates not just individually but within our community, reminding us that we share this journey together.
Facing Uncertainty with Reverence
In a world of uncertainty, Rosh Hashanah serves as a reminder of life’s fragility, encapsulated in the ancient prayers reverberating through the sanctuary—a sacred space for reflection and connection. One particular prayer captures this profound tension:
“On Rosh Hashanah, it is inscribed, and on Yom Kippur, it is sealed – how many shall pass away and how many shall be born, who shall live and who shall die, who in good time, and who by an untimely death, who by water and who by fire, who by sword and who by wild beast, who by famine and who by thirst, who by earthquake and who by plague, who by strangulation and who by lapidation, who shall have rest and who wander, who shall be at peace and who pursued, who shall be serene and who tormented, who shall become impoverished and who wealthy, who shall be debased, and who exalted.”¹
Even as a child, the message of this prayer is hard to ignore. It speaks to the inevitable uncertainties we all face. Yet, the concluding lines offer a glimmer of hope amidst the tension:
“תשובה, תפילה וצדקה מעבירין את רוע הגזרה”
(Teshuva, tefillah, u-tzedakah ma’avirin et ro’ah ha-gzera) — “Repentance, prayer, and acts of charity can avert the severity of the decree.”²
Only through teshuva (repentance or self-correction), tefillah (prayer), and tzedakah (deeds of justice and charity) can we hope to mitigate the severity of G-d’s decree.
Turning Inward with Purpose
Rosh Hashanah also calls us to introspection. In his book One God Clapping, Rabbi Lew describes teshuva as a turning inward, a purposeful realignment of our perceptions. This is echoed in the shofar’s call, which reminds us to reflect on our actions before the divine.
“The essential act of the High Holidays is teshuva, a turning toward mindfulness, and the first step in this process is a kind of tuning in to examine our perceptive mechanisms. When the shofar blows, it reminds us to turn our gaze inward, to shift our focus from the outside world to the window through which we view this world. Teshuva, at this time of the year, is the opportunity to assess privately our own behaviour before G-d. The expression is that at this time, especially ‘G-d is in the field,’ i.e. accessible to us human beings.”³
Even during the pandemic, we gathered for communal worship in Montreal, adapting to the circumstances by shortening the service, wearing masks, and maintaining distance. Despite these changes, the significance of the moment remained profound. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks beautifully captures this sentiment in his reflections, emphasizing how our traditions endure even in challenging times, providing us joy and guidance.
“The various questionnaires and research exercises that have been done recently on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on people’s lives came up with an unusual finding… People can’t plan for the future. They can’t know what tomorrow is going to bring… And that is undermining their sense of security.”⁴
Finding Strength in Uncertain Times
The pandemic has created widespread insecurity, casting a shadow of uncertainty over our daily lives. However, Rabbi Sacks reminds us of “bitachon,” the Jewish concept of intertwining faith with security, which has been a source of resilience for thousands of years. From Abraham’s journey into the unknown to our present-day struggles, faith has guided us through uncertainty.
“So, the question I simply want to ask these Yamim Noraim, on these Days of Awe, is, ‘How do we deal with insecurity?’ And the answer is contained, or at least the Jewish answer is contained, in that one word, ‘bitachon’ – the word that means security on the one hand and faith on the other.
How do you cope with insecurity? By faith. That has been the Jewish experience for almost 4,000 years. Judaism is about insecurity in a way, perhaps that no other religion is, and Jews have experienced insecurity in a way no other people have. The Jewish story begins with Abraham and Sarah just hearing a voice, calling them away from their family and their birthplace to a land that they did not know… They are traveling to an unknown destination; they are traveling blind.
As I’ve argued many times, in Judaism, faith is not certainty. Faith is the courage to live with uncertainty.”⁵
The Essence of Jewish Resilience
This is the essence of the Days of Awe. Rosh Hashanah reminds us of the cyclical nature of life, inviting us to explore our humanity’s depths and emerge renewed and resilient. Rabbi Sacks’ wisdom calls on us to navigate life’s uncertainties with faith, guiding us toward growth and spiritual connection.
Whether we gather in person or virtually, let us embrace these teachings with reverence and joy. May they usher in a year filled with health, prosperity, and blessings of peace.
Footnote:
Unetaneh Tokef. Siddur: Prayer Book for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Jewish Virtual Library, 2021, https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/unetaneh-tokef.
