Happy Birthday Israel
Today we celebrate 75 years since Israel’s rebirth! This Yom Ha-Atzmaut is an important milestone in Jewish history. Today we reflect and celebrate the many achievements of our Jewish state.
For centuries, our people kept the dream alive of a return to Zion in our prayers, in our rituals, and in our hearts. From reciting “Next year in Jerusalem” at our Passover seders, to praying three times a day for Israel to be restored, to breaking a glass at the wedding, our hearts and minds, and Jewish practices have turned us to the East. Â
The great rabbi, Hebrew poet, and philosopher Judah HaLevi born in Toledo, Spain in 1075 said it best, “My heart is in the east, while I am in the west,” captures the longing of the Jew toward our Holy Land.
Israel is a complex place; made more complex by the political situations of both the current government’s push toward extremism and the situation of the Palestinians that must be resolved. Israel can and must be a Jewish Democratic State for all its people.
Yet, our hearts at this celebration must still be turned toward Israel. There are many like-minded people, our families, and friends who live there who also question and challenge the current situations. Â
On this Yom Ha-Atzmaut, Israel’s 75th birthday, we affirm our lifelong love of the land and people of Israel even when we disagree vehemently with government policies. Israel must exist and is at the core of who we are as a people.
We support our Reform Jewish siblings who are building a progressive and inclusive Jewish life in the land of Israel. We support our LGBTQ+ Israeli community who need our care, concern, and support. We embrace the Israelis marching for freedom and democracy each day. We embrace the many different people who live in Israel!Â
Working with the West Hollywood City Council, and the Israel Civic Action Network, I am pleased to announce that in honor of Israel’s 75th birthday and Kol Ami's 30th anniversary, the intersection of Lexington and La Brea is now officially named Shalom Peace Square! We are planning a celebration to dedicate this at 4:00 PM on Sunday, May 7, 2023, with Mayor Sepi Shyne, and representatives from ICAN and the Israeli Consulate. Watch your email for more information.
Let us celebrate Israel! The world’s only Jewish nation. Let us give thanks to God for our people, our family, and friends. Am Yisrael Chai!!
Shalom and Yom Huledet Sameach Israel!
Rabbi Denise L. Eger |
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