I take mild offense at the claim that non orthodox synagogues do not say prayers for Israel and the hostages. I live in a small community that has one reform, one conservative, and one Chabad run synagogue. There is not a single Jewish person that I have encountered, from the rabbi at Chabad to the rabbi at the reform synagogue to folks whose only connection to the community is swimming at the JCC pool, who has not expressed support and prayers for Israel and the hostages. Over 500 people showed up at the Jewish Community Center Yom Ha'atzmaut celebration, which is a large fraction of the absolute number of Jews that live in Raleigh. I know for a fact that even the reform synagogue includes prayers for Israeli victory in its service.
During several visits to Chabad-led shuls in recent months, at each one Tehillim were recited in consideration of the war. While this may not be in line with previous practices, the "company line" since Oct 7 has been to stand with Israel (even tho they still won't call it a "state").
I don't think it's accurate to say that "this may not be in line with previous practices". Chabad in general is strongly supportive of the State of Israel (even if they my be ambivalent about its theological significance). Certainly more so than effectively every other "brand" of chasidim (most of whom are actively anti-Zionist).
You write: "Having grown up in the rather antisemitic city of Manchester.." I have lived my whole life in Manchester except for 4 years in London and 2 in Israel and have never met any antisemitic feelings apart from the very rare comment. What consistent antisemitic experiences have you had ?
I guess it was different being on the other side of Bury New Road! I had dozens if not hundreds of such experiences. Cursed at, insulted, spat upon, punched... and there would have been many more such experiences had I not developed the skill to identify potential threats at a distance and avoid them.
You might be right that the uncommitted Jew will have trouble passing on his commitment to the next generation. However, those that do both - are committed and also love and support Israel is the true ideal Jew.
I always imagine if during the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem, as they led the Yidden from their land, they turned and took one final heartbreaking look at their city burning - with tear running down their eyes.
Imagine if someone told them at that point, there will come a time where some Religious Jews would reject and spit at the land. What would hurt them more?
I take mild offense at the claim that non orthodox synagogues do not say prayers for Israel and the hostages. I live in a small community that has one reform, one conservative, and one Chabad run synagogue. There is not a single Jewish person that I have encountered, from the rabbi at Chabad to the rabbi at the reform synagogue to folks whose only connection to the community is swimming at the JCC pool, who has not expressed support and prayers for Israel and the hostages. Over 500 people showed up at the Jewish Community Center Yom Ha'atzmaut celebration, which is a large fraction of the absolute number of Jews that live in Raleigh. I know for a fact that even the reform synagogue includes prayers for Israeli victory in its service.
Glad to hear. This person was only reporting her personal experience.
During several visits to Chabad-led shuls in recent months, at each one Tehillim were recited in consideration of the war. While this may not be in line with previous practices, the "company line" since Oct 7 has been to stand with Israel (even tho they still won't call it a "state").
I don't think it's accurate to say that "this may not be in line with previous practices". Chabad in general is strongly supportive of the State of Israel (even if they my be ambivalent about its theological significance). Certainly more so than effectively every other "brand" of chasidim (most of whom are actively anti-Zionist).
We know an orthodox Zionist with purple hair!
Me too (same one 😊)
Thanks for your response. I feel for you.
I was attacked once on Bury New Road near Vine Street ,by two young men on Erev Rosh Hashanah but it wasn't antisemitic. They simply wanted my watch.
Natan
You write: "Having grown up in the rather antisemitic city of Manchester.." I have lived my whole life in Manchester except for 4 years in London and 2 in Israel and have never met any antisemitic feelings apart from the very rare comment. What consistent antisemitic experiences have you had ?
Best regards
Michael
I guess it was different being on the other side of Bury New Road! I had dozens if not hundreds of such experiences. Cursed at, insulted, spat upon, punched... and there would have been many more such experiences had I not developed the skill to identify potential threats at a distance and avoid them.
Nice and thoughtful article.
You might be right that the uncommitted Jew will have trouble passing on his commitment to the next generation. However, those that do both - are committed and also love and support Israel is the true ideal Jew.
I always imagine if during the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem, as they led the Yidden from their land, they turned and took one final heartbreaking look at their city burning - with tear running down their eyes.
Imagine if someone told them at that point, there will come a time where some Religious Jews would reject and spit at the land. What would hurt them more?
commitment has nothing to do with Judaism