Marking one year since October 7
That day has left an indelible mark on the Jewish people worldwide and will never be forgotten.
As we mark the first anniversary of October 7, my heart is filled with a profound mix of emotions.
A year has passed since that fateful day when Israel’s borders were breached, lives were torn apart, and hostages were taken – 101 of whom remain captive even now. That day has left an indelible mark on the Jewish people worldwide and will never be forgotten.
Since that tragic morning, I’ve had the privilege of visiting Israel twice. Standing on its soil, I witnessed both the depth of its wounds and the remarkable strength of its spirit. I met soldiers continuing their brave missions, danced with them as they prepared to return to the battlefield, and felt the unshakable bond between them and us, Am Yisrael. These young men and women fight for more than just the land; they fight for the survival of our people and our shared identity.
I’ve also spoken with families displaced by the war, witnessing their resilience even in the face of unimaginable loss. Each conversation deepened my understanding of what it means to endure, to survive, and to hold onto hope in the darkest of times. Their strength inspires us all.
Yet, amid this connection to Israel and our people, I cannot help but reflect on the painful contrast – the shocking lack of moral leadership from so many around the world.
Over the past year, we have witnessed an alarming absence of a moral compass from those who should be the pillars of justice. Instead of righteous outrage, there has often been silence, indifference, or worse – justifications for the violence and terror.
How have we arrived at a point where the deliberate murder of civilians, the taking of hostages, and the desecration of life can be dismissed or excused?
The absence of clear and decisive leadership in condemning these atrocities has been deeply disheartening. As Jews, we have long understood the dangers of silence in the face of oppression. This isn’t just about Israel – it’s about standing for humanity, dignity and the sanctity of life.
This void of leadership hasn’t just been felt internationally. Sadly, it has reverberated within our Jewish community here in Australia. Many of us have been left stunned by the reluctance of some leaders in politics, academia and media to unequivocally stand against antisemitism or offer unwavering support for Israel during its most trying moments.
There have been times when we’ve felt alone, fighting for our right to exist, and for our right to stand proudly as Jews without fear of vilification.
However, alongside this disappointment, we must also express our deep gratitude to the non-Jewish leaders and friends who have stood up with moral clarity. These individuals chose to speak out when it wasn’t easy or popular. Their courage has not gone unnoticed, and their moral clarity is a beacon of hope. They remind us that goodness, truth and justice still have strong allies.
This past year has been a wake-up call for our community, a reminder that the fight against hatred is far from over. But in the face of this challenge, we have become the leaders we need. Our community has rallied, refusing to let the actions – or inaction –of others define our response.
We have taken control of our narrative, stood proudly with Israel and found strength in our unity.
Throughout this past year, I’ve been deeply moved by the resilience of our people. Despite the challenges, we remain steadfast. We have shown our strength through unity and our unbreakable bond with Israel. We have also recognised and cherished the support of those outside our community who have stood with us.
October 7, 2023, now joins the long list of tragic moments in Jewish history. But as we have done throughout history, we rise from the ashes. We do not forget, but we do not yield to despair. We find ways to rebuild, to reclaim our courage, and to bring light into the world, even after the deepest darkness. The spirit of Am Yisrael guides us through these times.
As we mark this anniversary, may we honour the memory of those whose lives were lost, pray for the return of those still held captive, and strengthen our resolve to stand tall in the face of adversity. Let us continue to speak out against the lack of moral leadership we have witnessed and strive to be the guiding lights our world desperately needs.
We must also express our deep thanks to those who have stood with us and let their courage inspire us to build a future rooted in justice and compassion.
This is our time to lead with courage, conviction and compassion, ensuring that the values of justice and peace are not forgotten.
No matter the challenges we face, Am Yisrael chai – the Jewish people will continue to thrive.
Rabbi Daniel Rabin is rabbi of Melbourne’s Caulfield Shule.
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