July
8, 2006 - 11 Tamuz, 5766From Rabbi Black - Messages from Israel: July 2006
July
8, 2006 - 11 Tamuz, 5766
July 8, 2006 - 11 Tamuz, 5766
I write this e-mail early on Shabbat Morning. A combination of Jet Lag and a desire to be in touch with you has meant that I awoke very early - before sunrise. Since sleep is not forthcoming, I will take this opportunity to write you the first of what I hope will be several reports of our congregational trip to Israel.
We have been in Israel for two days - it has been a whirlwind of experiences for all of us. We arrived on Thursday afternoon, after a long day of travel. Since our group is so large (76 people, ages 8-80+), our travel agency was unable to secure seats on one plane for all of us. Most of us flew to Israel via Delta airlines through Atlanta, but some of us traveled on El-Al through New York. Both flights arrived at the beautiful new Ben Gurion airport at approximately the same time. After all of our luggage was collected, we met our tour guides, divided got onto two large busses and drove to Tel Aviv. We arrived at our hotel in time to watch the Sun setting over the Mediterranean Sea. Our first evening was at leisure and many of us went to the port of Jaffa to have dinner.
On Friday, we visited many important historic sites in Tel Aviv:
We joined with the rest of the "Tel Avivians" as we prepared for the coming of the Shabbat and then we traveled to the city of Modin to welcome Shabbat with Congregation Yozma - a thriving Reform congregation in Israel. At Congregation Yozma, we prayed together with members of the community and then we were treated to a delicious pot-luck shabbat dinner under the stars. Many of our children met with young people from the congregation and played a rousing game of basketball after dinner. Later in the evening, we sat and chatted with our hosts while the Congregation Yozma community band performed for everyone and we had a wonderful time. (I even got to "sit in" with the band and share some of my music as well....)
Today, Shabbat, is at leisure. Most of us will spend the day on the beach, visiting family and friends, resting by the pool at the hotel, exploring museums, soaking up the city and catching up on much needed sleep. Tomorrow we travel north to Caesarea, Haifa, the grottos of Rosh HaNikra, the Golan and Galilee. I will write another update in the days to come.
I know that many of you are concerned about the impact of the current political and military situation in the Gaza Strip. While the health and welfare of kidnapped Corporal Gilad Shalit is on the hearts and minds of everyone, the truth is that life not only goes on in Israel, it thrives. Last night at services, we offered prayers for Gilad's safety and an end to the current military crisis. On the radio there are hourly reports of the status of the current campaign, yet it is quite possible to walk the streets Tel Aviv and not realize that anything is happening at all. This is at the same time heartening and somewhat disconcerting, While there is no question that we feel absolutely safe here, we also know that there is fighting going on nearby. While we enjoy the beauty and the bounty of the Jewish State as visitors, our brothers and sisters in the IDF are fighting to bring home a comrade while striving to stop the onslaught of random missile attacks on border cities. In addition, the fate of the Palestinian people continues to lie in the hands of a fanatical Hamas leadership that refuses to work for peace - choosing instead to engage in the fruitless rhetoric and failed policy of aggression that only will lead to more suffering for all concerned.
Our tradition teaches us to pray for the peace of the State of Israel. As we continue on our journey, I invite you to take a moment and join with all of us in this vital act of faith and commitment. With best wishes for a Shabbat Shalom, I am......
Im Shalom m'Yisrael (With Shalom from Israel),
Rabbi
Joseph Black
July 11, 2006 - 15 Tammuz, 5766
Since I last wrote an installment of our Israel journal, we have covered a great deal of physical and spiritual territory. We left Tel Aviv on Sunday and headed North up the coast to the Cities of Caesarea, Haifa and Akko. We visited the magical Grottos of Rosh Ha Nikra and rode Jeeps high into the Golan Heights. We rafted in the Jordan River, visited the birthplace of the Jewish Mysticism in mountain city of Tsfat, swam in the beautiful pools of Sahne/Gan Ha Shelosha and got a security briefing on the current situation in the Golan and the Galil. This is only a brief snapshot of the past few days - to describe it all would take more space than this e-mail allows.
It is fascinating to visit these sites - many of which I have seen repeatedly, and still be overcome by the wonder and supreme joy of realizing what the Jewish State has accomplished. To stand on the Golan Heights and survey the fields of the kibbutzim below is to come to grips with the amazing feats of the Israeli army in the 6-day war of 1967. Each time I visit the Golan and the Galilee, in addition to being in awe of the military and technological achievements of the Jewish State, I am also sobered by the realization that each victory comes with a price. Every Israeli family has lost sons and daughters in wars. Tens of thousands of citizens have been injured - physically, spiritually or psychologically - by the conflicts that have raged here for the past century. This current chapter of waiting to find out what will happen to a young 19 year old soldier who was kidnapped by terrorists has all of us riveted.
This afternoon we arrived in Jerusalem. As we drove into the Capital of the State of Israel we stopped at the overlook at Mt. Scopus and said special prayers as we marveled at the sunset over the old City. Then we sang and danced with joy as we anticipated the next few days in this amazing and complex city.
Israel is filled to capacity with visitors. It has been a long time since I have seen so many people - Jews - from all over the world who have come to visit Israel and be forever changed by the experience. This bodes well for Israel’s future. As long as Jews - particularly American Jews - continue to show their support by traveling to Israel and seeing first hand the reality of daily life, those who might wish to demonize or marginalize the State of Israel will never succeed.
I will end here....it has been a long day.
Shalom M’Yisrael - Shalom from Israel,
Rabbi
Joseph Black
July 12, 2006 - 16 Tammuz, 5766
Today was our first day in Jerusalem. We visited Yad Vashem - Israel's Museum to the memory of the Shoah. We also visited the Knesset (Parliament), the beautiful Supreme Court Building and the Military Cemetery on Mt. Herzl - site of the graves of Theodore Herzl, Golda Meir, Yitzhak Rabin, and many of the Prime Ministers, presidents and soldiers killed in action since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. When we got on the bus to go to Yad Vashem, we heard about the attack on Israeli soldiers by members of the terrorist group, Hezbollah in Southern Lebanon. Two Israeli soldiers - members of the Druze community - were kidnapped. In response, it appears that the Israeli Defense Forces are mounting an all-out attack on Hezbollah positions. We realized that, had this happened just 24 hours earlier, we would have been in the middle of the events- as we had just returned from the Golan Heights and the upper Galilee.
First of all, I want to reassure all of you that we are very safe. Here in Jerusalem, we are far removed from the military action that is taking place. And yet, we are also keenly aware that events can change in Israel in an instant. All of our thoughts and prayers are with the IDF as they carry out this campaign.
I want to share a little bit about the new museum that was built at Yad Vashem. Designed by the famous Israeli Architect, Moshe Safdi, the new museum is, quite simply, a tour de force. Everything is shaped like triangles. One literally weaves one's way through a maze of exhibits that presents the events of the Holocaust as they unfolded. The information that we received during our visit was no different than what we would have learned at the old museum, or at the Holocaust Memorial in Washington, DC - or even our own Albuquerque Museum of Hatred and Intolerance. What WAS different was the extra message of Yad Vashem. As we entered into the museum, we saw scenes of Jewish life prior to 1933 - the year that Hitler came into power. A photo and video montage presented a beautiful and haunting picture of a world that is no more. This montage ended with the singing of "Hatikvah" (the Hope) - the national anthem of the state of Israel. As we exited the museum, we came into a beautiful courtyard, that, instead of being triangular in shape -was open at the top in order to present a beautiful vista of the city of Jerusalem and the forests that surround her. Hatikvah was also playing as we exited. The message was quite clear: the answer to hatred is hope - "Hatikvah." The State of Israel was created out of the ashes of Hitler's madness. Am Yisrael Chai - the people of Israel live - here in Israel and throughout the world. So long as there is a Jewish State, there will never again be another Holocaust.
We ended our visit to Yad Vashem in the Valley of the Communities - a memorial to all of the cities, towns and shtetls that, prior to the Final Solution, had a vibrant history of life, spirituality and culture. Following the war, they were all destroyed. We looked for the name of one city in particular - the city of Svichov - the place from which the Holocaust Torah in our ark was taken. At that sacred place, we held a brief memorial service to the victims of the Shoah and said Kaddish.
Our group, large as it is, continues to bond and thrive. We look forward to share more with you upon our return.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Pray for the three Israeli soldiers now in captivity.
B'Shalom,
Rabbi
Joseph Black
July 13, 2006 – 17 Tammuz, 5766 3:15 PM (6:15 AM Albuquerque Time)
As the situation here in Israel unfolds in the North, I want to once again assure you that we are all perfectly safe. As a matter of fact, from our perspective as tourists in Jerusalem, unless we listen to the news or receive reports from others, it is hard to tell that anything is happening whatsoever. Life goes on. People are out in the streets. Our tour continues and we are all having an incredible experience.
But, of course, the situation is worsening. It is impossible and inappropriate to ignore the news. The Israeli media is filled with reports from the North. As I write this letter, I am watching Israeli TV. I can see scenes from the Mystical City of Tsfat (Safed) where, earlier today, a Hezbollah ketusha rocket hit a religious school. We thank God that no one was killed, but eleven people were injured - one seriously. We were in Tsfat 2 days ago. In Naharia, where another rocket fell this morning, one woman was killed and several others were injured. The streets of Naharia are empty and everyone is in bomb shelters.
In an earlier e-mail I stated that the two abducted soldiers were Druze. This was incorrect. We now know the names of the two soldiers who were abducted by the Hezbollah: Ehud Goldwasser, from Naharia and Eldad Regev from Kiryat Motzkin. In addition, the prayers of everyone in Israel remain constant for Gilad Shalit who was kidnapped in Gaza last month.
There is no doubt now - Israel is at war. As to the length and breadth of this conflict, no one can tell. Whether or not this is an isolated incident or the beginning of a larger conflagration is in the hands of soldiers and Governments. We pray for peace - yet everyone understands that peace is not something that can simply be willed into being. When a sovereign state is attacked by Terrorists and when a Government supports or turns a blind eye to terrorist actions, there must be consequences. No one wants war. But Israel is quite clear in her message: we will not stand by when our citizens are attacked.
Today we climbed Masada. We heard the story of how this isolated fortress became a symbol for resistance against an enemy who was determined to destroy the Jewish people. Elements of the story of Masada are troubling, there is no doubt. And while I'm hesitant to draw parallels between ancient and modern history, the message remains constant. The Jewish State and indeed the Jewish people will never again allow themselves to be victims of those who are motivated by hatred.
After we left Masada we traveled to the Dead Sea. We went to the Ahava Cosmetics Factory and the mineral beach both operated by a Kibbutz near the Dead Sea. As we entered into the cosmetics factory, we were informed that it was closing early today. One of the soldiers killed in Lebanon was a member of the kibbutz. This is yet another example of how Israel is a very small country. Everyone is affected and impacted by war and violence. No one wants to lose loved ones. No one wants to kill or destroy. But unless and until there can be compromise on BOTH sides of the political fence, Israel has no choice but to defend her borders and her people - with whatever means are at her power.
I will keep writing as I am able. Tomorrow night we celebrate Shabbat in Jerusalem. May the peace of Shabbat spread over all the world and may all soldiers - wherever they may be - return to their homes in safety.
Shalom M'Yisrael - Shalom From Israel,
Rabbi
Joseph Black
July 14, 2006 – 18 Tammuz, 5766
Just a brief note before Shabbat descends over Jerusalem. We had a wonderful day today participating in an archeological dig near Kiryat Gat. We made some incredible discoveries at the dig. One of our younger participants, Robbie R., found a beautiful clay statue of what appears to be Hercules. Robbie also found an ancient coin. Another young participant, Theo H., found a complete pot. Many other important pieces of pottery were also uncovered. The archeologists were amazed and invited us to come back every day......
The coming of Shabbat brings us to the last full day of our journey. We are saddened to be saying to goodbye to Israel and to our group which has truly shared an amazing experience together. As I wrote in my last update, while the events of the North are on all of our minds, here in the South, in Jerusalem, life goes on as normal. We feel no danger - as a matter of fact, walking the streets of this amazing city, one feels absolutely safe. In one hour, we will be at the southern steps of the Temple mount, sharing Erev Shabbat services together. Shabbat is a time of peace - even in the midst of conflict.
I know that many of you are watching the news as it unfolds on CNN and the international press. You see pictures of rockets and tanks. Please remember that journalists do not always present the complete picture of what is taking place. What you are seeing is in the Northern section of the country and in Lebanon. We are nowhere near that activity.
My family and I will be staying a few extra days in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv - as are many other members of our group. We look forward to sharing our experiences upon our return.
Shabbat Shalom M'Yerushalayim - Shabbat Shalom From Jerusalem,
Rabbi
Joseph Black
Sunday, July 16, 2006 - 20 Tammuz 5766
I write this message on Sunday morning. Our "official" tour has ended. Last night, 38 members of our group flew back to the States. They are scheduled to arrive home today. The rest of the group will be staying on in Israel anywhere from an additional 3-9 days.
Our last Shabbat in Jerusalem was quite remarkable. We began with kabbalat shabbat services at the southern steps of the Temple complex. I'll try to describe the scene for you - although it is almost impossible to convey the experience. The southern steps, unlike the Western (or Wailing) wall was actually a part of the Temple complex. We stood and prayed at the very place that Pilgrims, arriving in Jerusalem for the first time, would climb in excited anticipation as they made an Aliyah (ascension) to the Temple Mount. From our vantage point, we overlooked the ancient city of David. As we sang Lecha Dodi together, the setting sun cast a golden glow over the city. Our voices joined together in harmony as we turned towards the Temple Complex in prayer.
Following our services, we all processed up to the Wall. We participated in the ecstatic scene as thousands of Jews - from every possible background - came to welcome the Shabbat. We saw Chasidic and ultra-Orthodox Jews in their fur hats and exotic dress joining with American tourists and high-school tour groups. After returning from the wall, we came back to our hotel and shared a delicious Shabbat Dinner.
On Shabbat morning, we were joined by our former Rabbinic Intern/Youth Director and first year Rabbinic Student, Hayley Feldman for breakfast. Most of the group then walked to the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion for Shabbat morning services.
The rest of the day was spent on walking tours, last minute shopping and packing for those who were leaving.
We had one final meal together as a group - where we thanked our wonderful tour guides, Shlomo and Julie, and took care of last minute details prior to departure.
Our final activity together was havdalah at Yemin Moshe - Montifiore's Windmill overlooking the Old City. This was a bittersweet moment as we said farewell to Shabbat, to Jerusalem, and to our group. Our voices joined together in song and prayer as we tasted the wine, smelled the sweet spices and lit and extinguished the multi-wicked candle of the Havdalah service. Then, those who were leaving got on the bus and went to the airport.
I'm sure you will hear from people who have been on trip about their experience, but I have to say that this was the most amazing group that I have ever had the privilege of traveling with. Although we were quite a large and diverse group, we bonded like a close-knit family.
Regarding the situation in the North..... Many of you have contacted me and other members of the trip with your concerns for our safety and well being. I know that watching CNN and the other major news outlets raises the anxiety levels of friends and family in the States. We, too, are watching the same coverage here in Israel. But again, please know that here in the south, in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, while our thoughts and prayers are with friends, family and soldiers, we feel absolutely safe and secure. This may sound strange, but please understand that Israel has been through this before. In 1982, during the Lebanese war, I was a first-year student at HUC. We saw the war in the North playing out on our television screens, but did not feel it where we lived in Jerusalem. 4 years ago, when I was in Jerusalem during the worst of the Intifada - things were much, much worse. Of course, events can change and we are monitoring the situation very carefully. As of now, my family has no plans to change our itinerary. Israel needs us now. The citizens of the State of Israel need our support, our prayers, our resources and, yes, our presence to let them know we stand with them at their time of need.
I look forward to seeing you upon my return.
With Shalom From Israel, I am,
Fondly,
Rabbi
Joseph Black
Thursday July 20, 2006 - 24 Tammuz, 5766
It has been a few days since my last update from Israel. I thought I would take this opportunity to write again. This will probably be the last e-mail I send to you before my family and I leave.
Our "official" tour ended five days ago. Last Saturday night, half of the group left Israel. Since that time, most of the others who did not leave on the 16th have returned to the States. After the group left, my family was originally scheduled to visit relatives on Kibbutz Sasa - located in the far Northern part of Israel near the Lebanese border. Obviously, our plans changed. We spent two more days in Jerusalem and then headed to Tel Aviv.
As I have stated in all of my previous reports, here in the South, while we are constantly following the events up North - the war seems very distant. There are, however, obvious reminders that things are far from normal.
The hotels in Tel Aviv are full - not with tourists (most of them have left and tours have been cancelled left and right) - but with Israelis. As we walk though the lobby of our hotel we hear fragments of conversations..... Families from Haifa, Tsfat, Kiryat Shmoneh and other Northern communities have come for a "vacation" in Tel Aviv. I hear that hotels in Eilat are also filled to overflowing.
We are all glued to the news. We hear about and see pictures of the devastation in Lebanon. Over 500,000 Lebanese citizens are now homeless. Foreign nationals are being evacuated from Beirut. There are armed US Marines in Lebanon escorting American citizens to safety. Think about this: the last time that the US had a substantial military presence in Lebanon was in the early 1980s when a Marine Barracks was bombed and 241 American troops were killed. If you will recall, those responsible for that attack were none other than Hezbollah - the terrorist organization that kidnapped the two Israeli soldiers and is bombing innocent civilians in Israel.
The Lebanese people are being victimized - but not by Israeli bombs. When Israel withdrew from Lebanon it was understood that the Lebanese army would deal with Hezbollah. Instead, for 6 years, there has been a steady stream of arms from Iran and Syria - these are the rockets that are now raining down on Northern Israel. Had the United Nations and the Lebanese Government fulfilled its obligation of ridding Southern Lebanon of the scourge of Hezbollah, these events would not be taking place.
The State of Israel is a Democracy - one might even call it a "noisy Democracy." As such, there are many sides of political debate. The media is filled with discussion about the effectiveness of:
While there is a great deal of debate, there is no doubt whatsoever that everyone is united in their support of the IDF and their mission of protecting Israeli citizens. Note - I said Israeli citizens, not Jews. Yesterday, two Arab Israeli children were killed by a ketyusha rocket that fell on them while they were playing on the streets of Nazareth. Their deaths are felt just as deeply as those of Jewish children in Haifa, Kiryat Shemoneh and Tsfat.
Over the next days and weeks I'm sure that the newspapers and airwaves will be filled with condemnation of Israel's bombing of "innocent civilians" in Lebanon. This is to be expected. Now, more than ever, we must stand firm in our support of Israel at this most difficult time. Remember that Israel did not ask for this war. Remember that, while our enemies justify their attacks by saying that Israel is occupying Arab land, the State of Israel withdrew from both Lebanon and Gaza. It is now clear that the "occupation" of which they are speaking is not territory that was conquered in 1967 - but 1948. The enemies of the Jewish State feel that any Jewish presence in "Palestine" is unacceptable. The idea that Jews - that Israelis - would fight for their survival by attacking terrorists who are bent on their destruction is somehow eclipsed in the media by reports of Israeli "aggression."
I look forward to seeing you at the Solidarity Rally at the JCC on Sunday. Although I'm sure I will be jet-lagged, I will be speaking to the community about our experiences. I also hope that many of our trip participants will be able to attend as well.
Pray for the peace of the State of Israel. Pray for her soldiers and her children.
L'hitraot,
Rabbi
Joseph Black
To read Rabbi Black's remarks from the Solidarity Rally, please click here.
