There are 2 impending anniversaries that weigh heavy on the hearts of Jews across the world. One is today October 7th, and the other is October 24th. A year ago, October 7th coincided with the celebration of the holiday of Simchat Torah in the State of Israel. As we know, the events of that day were devastating. This year October 24th is the day that coincides with Simchat Torah in Israel. The mention of these 2 days is important and relevant in the discussion when we not only look back, but maybe more importantly, we look forward.
Remembering is part of the core values for every Jew with any degree of connection to the faith. As Jews, we remember because we mourn, we remember because we honor, but maybe most importantly, we remember because we have no choice. The joy of being Jewish goes hand in hand with the burden of being persecuted, often hunted, and far too often in history, expelled or killed. And yet what might very well be the most amazing thing about our people, is that while empires have crumbled around us, often shortly after they came after us, we have endured for centuries. If we do not remember, we risk not seeing the signs of impending doom, and ultimate preventing devastation striking within our midst all over again. On the surface it seems ominous and gloomy. So why is it that I have never been more happy or proud to be Jewish than any other time in my life?
Last year on Simchat Torah in my synagogue here in America, we celebrated the holiday knowing part of what had taken place the day before in Israel. Most of us were either deeply saddened, angrier than ever before, or both. And yet in following the leadership, we danced. We did so with heavy hearts, and at least speaking for myself I can say, I forced myself to do so, but we did so, nonetheless. At that moment I not only did not know the reason why it was important, I had very little desire to do so whatsoever. However, when I look back, and think of the months that followed, and the recovery of our collective psyche, I realize that reacting in one way above all, a Jewish way, was the one thing that would restore our optimism, and for those who may have lost it, our faith.
It is my belief that the root cause of anti-Semitism is the fact that as the Chosen People, Jews are the light of the world. This by no means that every Jew is good, and it certainly does not mean that you have be Jewish to be good, but it means that the light that brightens and strengthens mankind, emanates from the Jewish people. Those who wish to share in the light are welcome, and subsequently live in peace and friendship with Jews around the world. Those who do not wish to share in this light are mired in darkness. A darkness that breeds hate, violence and destruction. It would explain why the empires that have fallen have done so without wiping the Jewish people off the planet. Simply put, you can diminish the light to some degree, but when all is said and done, nothing can distinguish the flame that was lit by the Almighty.
So, this year when October 7th arrives, it might be most appropriate to remember with solemnity the horrors and tragedies that took place on that day, and then, 17 days later, when Simchat Torah falls, to celebrate with hope and promise. “Simchat Torah” is the “Joy of the Torah”, and it is meant to be celebrated with happiness and enthusiasm. We see our brave soldiers as fighting and sacrificing for all the Jewish people around the world, and we have faith in their ultimate victory. It will be our job to fight and win the spiritual battle. By praying and atoning on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, and celebrating on Simchat Torah, we do our part in ensuring the enemy never achieves its goal of wiping us out. We do our part in keeping that flame lit and using our light to illuminate the world.
Wishing all of you a good and sweet year.
Am Yisrael Chai
Never Again is Now!
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