Stop the killings, they are family to you
In these challenging times, the situation for millions of Jewish lives in Israel is precarious, marked by ongoing military attacks from terror nations. As a UK Askan, a religious, even Hasidic Jew, your voice and influence can make a significant difference.
Historically, Zionism and the State of Israel have been at a distance from the aims of the UK Askan due to various reasons—theological, ideological, communal, and Halakhic. However, the current circumstances call for a shift in perspective.
The central teaching of Hasidism, with its belief that every meeting and conversation has been orchestrated from On High, urges us to use our positions of influence to protect Jewish lives. In this time of suffering, silence is not an option.
Religious Jews, who view the modern State of Israel as a divine fulfillment of biblical promises, see supporting Israel as a religious obligation and mitzvah. The state is not just a political entity but a God-ordained tool to bring about redemption and fulfill the divine covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Settling and defending Israel is seen as a mitzvah essential for Jewish religious life and survival.
The protection of Jewish lives is a core concern, arising from historical experiences of persecution. The modern state is seen as a necessary guarantee for Jewish security. The survival of Israel amid regional hostility and international political challenges, including some Western nations’ policies that are perceived as either critical or ambivalent towards Israel, further emphasizes the importance placed by religious Jews on maintaining a strong, sovereign Jewish state to safeguard its people.
Support for Israel is part of a broader Jewish mission—Knesset Yisrael—which deeply ties Jewish collective identity and faithfulness. This spiritual and communal solidarity reinforces the commitment to defending Jewish lives and sustaining the Jewish homeland under divine mandate.
In light of these facts, it is crucial that we, as a community, stand together in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Israel. When asked about the State of Israel by MPs, Cabinet Ministers, or Foreign Ambassadors, let us not overtly distance ourselves from Israel. Instead, let us state unequivocally that Jewish lives in Israel matter.
It is also important that Western nations stop demonizing Israel. The current situation is a time of suffering, and it is our responsibility to extend a hand of support and understanding to our fellow Jews in Israel. Let us remember that Jewish lives should never be shed like water.
The UK Askan has come to occupy a position of influence through hard work, discerning judgment, and diplomacy, with a priority to protect and strengthen the community. This impressive position may have been attained because of this demanding time. Let us use this influence to safeguard the lives and future of our Jewish brethren in Israel.
[1] J. Katz, "Jewish Identity and the State of Israel: An Examination of the Religious Zionist Movement," Jewish Social Studies, vol. 54, no. 3-4, 1992, pp. 185-213. [2] D. Novak, "The Sanctity of the Political in Judaism," Modern Judaism, vol. 16, no. 3, 1996, pp. 231-245. [4] Y. Elon, "The Halakhic Status of the State of Israel," Jewish Law Annual, vol. 1, 1955, pp. 1-120.
Read also:
- Massive 8.8 earthquake hits off the coast of Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting Japan to issue a tsunami alert.
- Court petitions to reverse established decision on same-sex marriage legalization
- Proposed Standardization of Food Labeling Laws Among Member States by the Commission
- Current News: AfD Achieves 26% - Union Dips to Laschet's Level
