Jewish Resilience: A Legacy of Strength and Unity

The heritage of the Jewish people stretches back thousands of years. This is a people rich in wisdom, proud of their identity, and often envied by others. Throughout history, they have stood as an example to the world, a beacon for humanity. Despite facing repeated persecution and expulsion, and despite the many hostile nations and tribes that have conquered the land of Israel, the Jewish people have endured through the centuries.

Ancient Origins
The roots of the Jewish people are found in the biblical patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—who are regarded as the founding ancestors of the Jewish people. Their story begins in the ancient Near East, in what is today Israel, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and parts of Iraq, around 4,000 years ago. Abraham, often considered the first Jew, entered into a covenant with God, with the promise that his descendants would become a great nation. This promise is central to Jewish identity and history.

Exodus from Egypt
One of the defining moments in Jewish history is the Exodus. Led by Moses, the Israelites escaped from slavery in Egypt, returning to the land of Israel. This event is foundational to Jewish identity and is commemorated each year during Passover, reminding the Jewish people of their liberation and resilience.

Kingdom of Israel
After the Exodus, the Israelites settled in Canaan (modern-day Israel) and established the Kingdom of Israel. Under the leadership of King David and his son Solomon, Israel became a united monarchy with Jerusalem as its capital and remember this was many years before the birth of Christianity and Islam.

The Jewish Religion
Judaism is both a religion and an ethnic identity. Central to Judaism is the belief in one God (monotheism), the adherence to the Torah (the Jewish sacred texts), and a commitment to ethical conduct. Judaism is one of the oldest religions.

The Diaspora
Throughout history, various conquests—including the Babylonian and Roman invasions—led to the scattering of Jewish communities across the globe, known as the Jewish Diaspora. These communities took root in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and later in the Americas, Russia, and beyond.

Cultural Heritage
Jewish culture is rich and diverse, shaped by the various regions and countries in which Jewish communities have lived. This culture includes:

Language: Hebrew, the ancient language of the Bible, was revived in the 19th and 20th centuries and is now the official language of Israel. Yiddish and Ladino also play important roles in Jewish cultural history.

Traditions and Festivals: Jewish life is marked by numerous holidays, including Shabbat (a weekly day of rest), Passover (celebrating the Exodus), Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year), and Hanukkah (marking the rededication of the Second Temple).

Jewish Food: Jewish cuisine reflects the various communities Jews have lived in, including influences from Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and North Africa. Foods like bagels, challah, gefilte fish, and hummus are iconic.

Modern Jewish Identity
Today, Jewish identity is not only shaped by religion but also by a shared history, culture, and peoplehood. Jews around the world connect to their heritage through religious practices, cultural traditions, and community involvement.

Jewish Communities Worldwide: While Israel is the Jewish homeland, Jewish communities thrive in countries like the United States, Canada, France, and many others. These communities maintain strong ties to Israel and to the broader Jewish world.

Jewish Peoplehood: Jewish identity extends beyond religion, encompassing shared historical experiences such as the Holocaust, as well as a collective commitment to preserving Jewish culture and history.

A Nation That Endures
As Israel celebrates its 77th anniversary this year, it continues to face significant challenges. Surrounded by hostile nations, terror organizations, and regimes like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, Israel’s survival is constantly tested. However, the spirit of the Jewish people remains resilient. Despite these hardships, Israel has made invaluable contributions to the world, and its citizens—especially its youth—serve with pride in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

However, many Jews, particularly in the United States, are drifting further from their connection to Israel. Too many are swayed by biased media or misinformation, turning away from Israel’s true struggles and achievements. Sadly, this disconnect is also evident within Israel itself, where some fail to appreciate the freedoms and opportunities that have been earned through hard struggle.

It is important to remember the history that led to Israel’s creation. Once a barren, arid land, Israel now thrives with its people living in relative peace, secure under the protection of innovations like the Iron Dome. Reflect on the days when life in Israel was fraught with danger, when bombs could explode in the streets, and when Jews had no refuge from persecution. The Shoah is a painful reminder of the dire need for a Jewish homeland, a place of safety.

In the Middle East, Israel enjoys a unique position—a democracy where citizens can vote, become anything they aspire to, and live in peace with neighbors like the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco.

A Time for Unity
The tragic events of October 7th, 2023, brought unimaginable sorrow and suffering. Yet, one silver lining has emerged: Jews worldwide, particularly in the United States, are rediscovering a sense of unity with Israel. This renewed solidarity is a crucial step in ensuring the survival and thriving of Jewish identity.

So, let the people of Israel live. Instead of complaining or protesting, it is time to focus on solutions and progress. It is time to work together, appreciate the freedoms we have, and show the world the strength and unity of the Jewish people. Remember, unity is the key to safeguarding our heritage and securing a bright future for generations to come.