Reflections on Tisha BaAv 2024 

Some 2,000 years ago the People of Israel were slaughtered in their own streets. For many of us, the ability to fully understand this reality has evaded us for our lifetime. That was until 10 months ago. 10/7 has reshaped our reality, reshaped our understanding of humanity, and reshaped our understanding of Jewish history. 

Jews have been indigenous to the Land of Israel for as long as most religions have walked this earth. Generation after generation Jews relearnt that they were not safe under foreign rule. 

This is why our generation is now so confused. Jews weren’t safe under foreign rule in Spain, Germany, and all over. Therefore, a modern State of Israel to protect every Jew, while standing for moral & progressive values with a guiding democratic compass, would be a safe haven after all these generations of pain. 

Confusion. How could 10/7 happen? How could Jewish women be raped in their own land simply because they were Jewish? How could Jewish babies be burnt alive? How could Jewish children and elderly be taken captive from their families? 

Our generation is sitting confused and at a loss for words. Israel was supposed to be our quiet and safe home. Clearly, that is not a given. 

Tisha BaAv is the commemoration of Jewish tragedy across all generations. The defined day from when the Jewish Holy Temple was destroyed and an entire people sent into exile. October 7th is our modern Tisha BaAv. 

While many of us sit confused and filled with many emotions over this past year, it is worth noting that 2,000 years ago Tisha BaAv seemed to be the darkest moment with no light in sight. Since then, Jews have built a glorious country that has found a way to exceed so many expectations. 

Now, we must respect the reality that if we want this State of Israel to grow, flourish, and rise after the horrors of last year, that we the people must stand strong and lift up our homeland. 

Tisha BaAv is a reminder of the worst of times. This is no longer challenging to understand. This is an open reality to us all. But with this reality, today is no better than any other day to stand strong and find a way to give to the rebuilding of our homeland.