I write this on Tisha B’Av – the Ninth of the month of Av, when we mourn the destruction of our Temple and multiple other calamities for the Jewish People, including the Shoah.
Last night, as we traditionally do, we recited Lamentations – Eicha. How? How could this be?
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But this year, the cry of Eicha is even stronger than has been the case in recent years.
For we are not “only” looking back at historical suffering. We are struggling through enormous pain in this moment – coping with the incomprehensible cruelty and ugliness of the massacre of October 7, 2023, as well as the growing hatred towards Jews across the world. That hatred is stronger than it was a year ago. The libels against us are endless; the ugliness takes the breath away.
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Again and again and again. Do we deserve this? we ask God. What is it you want from us?
I cannot begin to provide answers about why. But what is clear is that we have an amazing generation of young people here in Israel that does understand what is required of them. They are selfless and devoted – to their families and to Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael.
They choose life. And they live with love and determination. I am inspired by their strength, as they lead the way forward.
Thus my title. I drew it from a commentary by Rabbi Steven Burg, CEO of Aish HaTorah. He tells us: There is nothing in the world stronger than the broken heart of a Jew.
That is my very succinct and very important message for this day.
We will not be defeated; we will rise up stronger.
Aish has put out a very moving and inspirational video demonstrating this strength.
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I was going to write about Hamas, Witkoff, and all the rest – but this will keep another day or two. Important that this go out now.
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I ask for prayers for all of Am Yisrael.
Pray for the wisdom and courage of our leaders.
Pray for the safety of our soldiers as they fight.
Pray for the recovery of all hostages.
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©Arlene Kushner. This material is produced by independent journalist Arlene Kushner. Permission is granted for it to be reproduced only with proper attribution.
