Jews Worldwide Unite in Prayer for Peace Following Recent Conflict with Hamas

Jews located far from Israel congregated in synagogues over the weekend, marking their first Shabbat services following the attack by Hamas militants on Israel that has instigated an ongoing conflict. Religious leaders conducted prayers for peace while their congregations shared collective sorrow. Enhanced security measures were observed at numerous synagogues.

Resurfacing Trauma in Jewish Community, According to Pittsburgh Rabbi

The violent conflict instigated by Hamas has ramifications beyond geopolitics for the Jewish diaspora, articulated one Rabbi from the United States. Particularly in Pittsburgh, the recent events have rekindled deeply rooted intergenerational trauma, as the city bears the stain of being the site of the deadliest anti-Semitic attack in U.S. history. Rabbi Daniel Fellman of Temple Sinai highlighted that “the intentions of Hamas are not just to destroy Israel but to annihilate you and me.”

Despite the pervasive anguish, communities globally took to heart the words of an Israeli soldier who encouraged worshippers to “spread this prayer worldwide through song and dance during this Shabbat.”

Fellman delivered a sermon that focused on the biblical narrative of Cain and Abel, emphasizing the fraternal relationship among all human beings. He cautioned that failing to recognize our shared humanity risks perpetuating a cycle of violence akin to the story of Cain and Abel.

Recollection of Prior Trauma in Pittsburgh Synagogue

Rabbi Seth Adelson of Congregation Beth Shalom in Pittsburgh found last week’s attack reminiscent of the 2018 attack on the Tree of Life synagogue. Unlike the shock of the previous attack, the recent events, while heartrending, were sadly plausible. Adelson noted a felt absence of community embrace this time, contrasting it with the supportive atmosphere post-2018 attack.

Nevertheless, the community continues to uphold its rituals; a bar mitzvah took place during Saturday’s service at Beth Shalom. “At times, we celebrate even while mired in grief,” Adelson said.

Increased Security Measures in Berlin Synagogues

In response to the escalated global tensions due to the Hamas attack and Israel’s retaliatory bombings in Gaza, Berlin witnessed a conspicuous enhancement of security in front of synagogues. Social media had also witnessed calls to violently protest against Jewish establishments in Germany.

At Berlin’s Chabad community, law enforcement and private security personnel monitored the premises closely. Rabbi Yehuda Teichtal remarked that the situation is exceptionally challenging for the Jewish community but also mentioned community efforts to protect synagogues.

Indonesian Rabbi Advocates for Peaceful Resolution

The solitary synagogue in Indonesia, a country with a Muslim majority, witnessed prayers for peace led by Rabbi Mordechai Ben Avraham. The rabbi noted that their community remains unfazed because their primary focus is religious practice.

Emotional Services in Miami Beach Synagogue

While his parents sought safety in a secure room in northern Israel, Juval Porat aimed to concentrate on preparing hymns for the first Shabbat services post-Hamas attack at Temple Beth Sholom in Miami Beach. An atmosphere of collective sorrow permeated the synagogue as prayers were said for peace, safety, and hostages.

Senior Rabbi Gayle Pomerantz named the congregation’s collective feelings—fear, anger, and shock. She emphasized the need for solidarity and support for Israel’s humanitarian endeavors over hatred.

Rabbi Robert Davis underscored this sentiment as he lit a candle for the victims, stating, “The number of candles will never suffice. We must be the lights.”

The coverage of religious matters by Big Big News is supported through a collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by the Lilly Endowment Inc. The Associated Press holds sole responsibility for this content.

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More about Global Jewish Unity

• Hamas Attack on Israel
• Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting
• Global Tensions After Hamas Attack
• Jewish Community in Indonesia
• Miami Beach Synagogue