“It was a meeting for peace – peace for the Israelis, and peace for the Arabs.” That’s how Monsieur Serge Benhaim described it in an exclusive interview with Aish.com.
President of the one of the largest synagogues in Europe, Monsieur Benhaim and his colleagues wanted to do something to help promote peace in the Middle East. They decided to hold a special community wide service at Synagogue Don Isaac Abravanel la Roquette in Paris.
Located in Paris’ fashionable 11th arrondissement, this Orthodox, Sephardic synagogue is a vibrant place. Hundreds of people throng its Shabbat services each week; many members are families with young children.
As the day of the prayer service approached, the mood in France darkened. Anti-Israel rallies were planned for Paris and the French city of Lille; some of the language being used to describe the events was violent.
“On Friday morning we also heard that there would be an anti-Israel rally nearby at the same time,” Monsieur Benhaim recalled. Ominously, the organizers were planning a march through central Paris, ending at the Synagogue Don Isaac Abravanel.
“I told the police it would be dangerous, and asked them to change their route or to shorten the Palestinian walk and finish the walk far away from our synagogue,” Monsieur Benhaim said. The police assured him there was no need to worry; they had the situation under control.
In the heart of Paris a speaker shouted “Death to the Jews!” then the Arabic call “Allah Akbar,” repeated by thousands of people.
Tensions continued to rise. Saturday night, a Molotov cocktail was thrown at a synagogue in the Paris suburb Aulnay sous Bois and two armed men were arrested as they approached the entrance of another synagogue in the 20th arrondissement of Paris. On Sunday, July 13, 2014 as the anti-Israel rally in the heart of Paris began, 8,000 Parisians flocked to hear denunciations of Jews and the Jewish state.
Jonathan Simon-Sellem, a French-Israeli journalist who was at the scene, wrote later that he couldn’t believe his ears. In the iconic heart of Paris, the Place de Bastille, a speaker stood at a microphone shouting “Death to the Jews!” then the Arabic call “Allah Akbar,” repeated by thousands of people. In nearby restaurants and cafes, Parisians observed the events without saying anything. The mob’s incendiary words went unchallenged. As the demonstrators moved through the streets of Paris, there were calls to kill Jews and to trash Jewish shops. A replica of a Hamas missile that hit an Israeli nursery was paraded and widely applauded by the crowd.
Meanwhile, in the nearby Synagogue Don Isaac Abravanel, hundreds of men and women, many with babies and children in tow, were streaming in for the peace service. Despite their nervousness at the nearby demonstration – and with renewed assurances from the French police – the synagogue organizers felt ready to start. In addition to the police presence, the Consistoire, France’s central Jewish communal organization, had lent the synagogue a dozen unarmed security guards for the day. They were supplemented by about 50 members of a Jewish youth group – also unarmed – who had volunteered to help defend the synagogue from any threats during the service.
“So we start our meeting – 400 people – women, children,” Monsieur Benhaim explained. As the congregants started praying for peace in Israel, the anti-Israel demonstrators were getting closer and more provocative. Minutes into the service, at 6pm, a battle broke out outside between demonstrators and police, a mere 300 meters from the synagogue.
Police stemmed the march, diverting it down a boulevard away from the synagogue. Then a mob of 1,000 protestors doubled back, marching on the synagogue. “We heard a big cry and ‘Allah Akbar’ by one thousand people,” Monsieur Benhaim said.
Congregants watched in horror as protestors – many armed with knives, axes and broken bottles - stormed the building.
Congregants watched in horror as protestors – many armed with knives, axes and broken bottles - stormed the building. The synagogue’s security guards rushed to keep out the intruders. For a few long moments, they fought alone; five sustained light injuries. Then they were relieved by police.
The battle outside raged for hours. Another nearby synagogue was pelted with stones. “So we closed the synagogue and we asked everybody to stay inside until everything would be okay,” Monsieur Benhaim said. He heard the mob outside “all the time singing ‘Allah Akbar’ and ‘Kill the Jews’ – if you can call that a song.” Congregants were particularly concerned that police secure a nearby metro station, to stop them being attacked as they and their families made their way home at night.
Cooped up in the synagogue for hours, the congregants turned their attention to the children, making their comfort and security their number one priority. Synagogue officials showed some short films about Israel; others led the children in song. People brought out toys and games, somebody found soft drinks. It wasn’t until 9:30pm, hours after the battle of the Synagogue Don Isaac Abravanel started, that police secured the area and congregants were finally allowed to leave the building and go home.
A Turning Point
In the aftermath of the siege, France’s president and major ministers were quick to condemn the attack. France’s Interior Minister Manuel Valls denounced it “with the greatest force.” Police were posted at the synagogue the following day, Bastille Day in France. French officials rushed to assure France’s Jews that they will be protected. But after the siege of his synagogue – one of the major Jewish institutions in Europe - Monsieur Benhaim isn’t so sure. For him and many others, the attack on the Synagogue Don Isaac Abravanel is a turning point.
“People were really afraid. They didn’t dream of such a situation; people coming to a synagogue to fight and perhaps to kill people. The last time Jewish people have been endangered was the Second World War with the Germans…. A synagogue was something that was very respected; synagogues, cemeteries, schools or hospitals were something holy. This attack is something very new.”
Before the question was ‘Do we have to go?’ Now the question is ‘When should we go?’
Monsieur Benhaim believes that the politicians and police want to protect the Jewish community, but given the increasing threat and constant anti-Semitic harassment the community faces, they lack the resources. “Now we are afraid they are trying to kill us. Molotov cocktails. Toulouse two years ago (when a gunman shot dead three children and a father outside the Jewish school) . Every day we have a problem. Every day young people coming out of school are pushed and attacked.”
“I don’t wear a kippah in public any more. Nobody goes in the street in a kippah. We stopped two or three years ago. Now we wear a cap.”
In the past few years the number of French Jews moving to Israel has skyrocketed. The first four months of 2014 saw a 312% rise in the number of French Jews relocating to the Jewish state.
As a community leader, Monsieur Benhaim has seen this phenomenon first-hand. “Before the question was ‘Do we have to go?’ Now the question is ‘When should we go?’” As a leader in the community his role is changing too. “Before Jewish leaders were talking about security, but now we’re talking about leaving. Before our job was thinking of ways of keeping Jews in France… But now some Jewish managers start to ask if our duty is not to prepare our community to leave France.”
(62) https://jerusalemtopstore.com, July 9, 2019 8:07 PM
Enough is enough already. Its time to fight for yourselves. Running away will never solve anything.
(61) Anonymous, July 22, 2014 9:17 PM
Are you surprised?
We must remember that "the past is predictable of the future". We all went through this before, so we should know better now. Satan is rearing its ugly head again, just as he does when he doesn't get his way after many tries. Satan and his evil spirits roam the earth seeking the destruction of mankind and the ruination of souls. So let's start with the Jews Satan says, as that is where I can cause the most trouble. Then, each time a problem arose, it would be a Jewish problem, and people would stand by silently and do nothing. They (non-Jews), feared for their lives so they tolerate it. That is how it happened all over the world, not just in France. As long as people stand by silently and say nothing, this hatred will continue. We all must stand up for the rights and dignity of all peoples of the world, no matter who they are. France has not succumbed to the Muslims, they changed the dress code of them that hide their faces from view, and has very strong laws concerning disturbing the peace and the rights of its citizens. However, please remember, it is not all Muslim people that are problems. In the United States, people of the Muslim faith are not radicals and want peace and security for their families just as we all do. We have to remember those good people who respect the dignity of others, deserve to be treated with kindness and respect in return. So it is time for all people to gather together to fight this terrible evil that has surfaced again and not think that it is solely a Jewish problem. It is a problem for all people of the world. Your part is to say "NO" to discrimination, anti-semitism, racial injustice, and intolerance of those people who threaten everyone's right to live in peace and security under the equal protection of the law. Everyone must stand up for the dignity of the person with love and kindness extended to all people regardless of race, religion, or creed.
Please, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem". Amen.
(60) Anonymous, July 21, 2014 6:13 PM
preparing to leave
Enough is enough already. Its time to fight for yourselves. Running away will never solve anything.
(59) David, July 21, 2014 12:18 AM
The Coming Messiah
One of the most positive messages I have ever heard from the Synagogue was Prepare for Mosiach. To me this does not mean violent demonstrations, or secular ambition, but a sincere focus on Prayer for Israel and Jerusalem where it is prophesied that the Messiah will appear. And as we know the Messiah will be the song of God, not a King - this should make people learn to think instead of acting in such ways so as to ruin His glory and joy.
(58) irwin, July 20, 2014 9:14 PM
jews only free from hatred in Israel
Jews can only be protected by israel and iDF and G-d and Prime Minister of Canada Harper.
(57) marilyn weltman, July 19, 2014 11:00 AM
well written
Go to Canada, England USA. Ireland, but leave now before it is to late. The hand writeing is on the wall.
Kyra Nelson, July 21, 2014 5:10 PM
You're Nuts
Nowhere is safe or good for Jews except Israel. You're deluding yourself if you think otherwise.
(56) Patrick Maher, July 19, 2014 1:29 AM
France has always been anti-Semitic even before the Muslims came to the country
Jews are well educated,have a sense of family, for the most part very honest, know how to get ahead in life by taking risks, rarely in trouble with the law and are fun to be with yet the world hates them,this I cannot understand. If all the jews returned to Israel the world will go broke
(55) Ari Ben Yisrael, July 18, 2014 8:53 PM
Wake up "Aish"
I am an ex S. African veeeeery PROUD ISRAELI. Am I now after reading this, meant to feel sorry for you socalled Jews, who having been given the opportunity since the establishment of Medinat Yisrael/ the STATE of ISRAEL in 1948 still choose to live in exile? Sorry if I cannot sympathies. My parents were refugees......They fled Europe, I choose NEVER to be stateless EVER again. You can too. COME.HOME. NOW!!!!!!
(54) Yossi B., July 18, 2014 6:33 AM
This is incredibly sad. Islamists marching in the streets of Paris, London and Stockholm, celebrating murder in the name of religion, and shouting "kill the Jews!" In the meanwhile, European politicians and journalists keep feeding the public the same old lie: Jews are just as hateful as the Muslims. The Muslims, in fact, are just trying to defend themselves from those awful Jews...
(53) John, July 17, 2014 6:46 PM
The French, and the rest of Europe
This has been going on for some time now, and it surprises me that the Jews in Europe haven't figured it out yet. Socialism in Europe is the name of the game, and it promotes an open door policy for Islam/Muslims to enter and live off the dole from the government.
In less than 50 years Europe will have been TAKEN OVER by the Islamic mob, and the sooner the Jews of Europe realize this the better. ALL JEWS need to make preparation to go back to Israel, end the diaspora NOW! Get a grip people....the world HATES G-ds message to the Jewish faith. To promote a one G-d creator of the cosmos, and the very message that goes with it. To love everyone as you would love yourself, and love the creator who gave you that ability in the first place.
(52) Sorin D., July 17, 2014 4:16 PM
faith comes from Jews
If Jews loose ground in Europe christians will follow too. I live in Canada and such things are not visible here, Toronto and Montreal have peaceful Jews comunities. I pray for peace of Jerusalem and Jews wherever they live. God bless Israel.
(51) larry babitts, July 17, 2014 3:31 PM
Perhaps it's time has come
Perhaps the time has come that Jews stop running away from their responsibilities and decide to stay and fight - Just as our cultural cousins the Arabs took up arms against us the French Jews should arm themselves and be prepared to defend their right to live wherever they damned well please to live - These Moslems are not Frenchmen, but foreign hoodlums with French passports - Jews in Europe must remember the catch-phrase "NIE WIEDER" - Larry the B
(50) Bayla, July 17, 2014 1:30 PM
!!!'הודו לה
קצת מהניסים.........
יום רגוע ושקט בע"ה לכל אחינו בית ישראל.
סיכום של מעט מן המעט מניסי הניסים שה' עשה לנו שנוכל להתחיל את היום עם חיוך =)
גורמי רפואה במצרים - " 7 אזרחים מצרים נהרגו ו-22 נפצעו מרקטה טועה שהתפוצצה בצפון סיני סמוך לגבול עם ישראל". קצת התבוננות.. בכוונה הראו לנו משמיים מה כוחה של רקטה אחת כשהיא פוגעת באוכלוסיה!
באשדוד - רקטה נפלה בתחנת דלק באשדות וגרמה לבערה של מכלית דלק שהכילה 35 אלף ליטר בנזין! שהתחילה לבעור והיה חשש גדול לפיצוצה שיכול היה לגרום נזק עצום מימדים שעוד לא היה כמותו!!! כך אמרו הכבאים ואמרו היה נס גדול! ואמר יאיר לפיד "סיירתי בתחנת הדלק שנפגעה באשדוד. יש שם עדיין 100,000 ליטר דלק מתחת לאדמה, וברוך השם שזה לא נגמר יותר גרוע.."
בעזה – לאחר עצומות רבות לניתוק עזה מחשמל שלא עזרו.. דאג ריבונו של עולם לנתק כ-50 אלף תושבי עזה מחשמל בעקבות רקטה "טועה" שפגעה בקו חשמל
באר שבע – רקטה נפלה במגרש כדורגל בדיוק לאחר שקבוצה גדולה של נערים שיחקו שם.. ועוד במקום אחר רקטה נפלה בדיוק ליד בלון גז ולא התפוצץ!
ראשון לציון – טיל של כיפת הברזל נפל כ-30 ס"מ ליד מקבץ של 6 בלוני גז ולא התפוצץ!
המועצה האזורית אשכול - רקטה פגעה ופערה חור באמצע מטבח הבית כמה שניות לפני שהיו שם!
בשער הנגב - בדיוק הבנות יצאו ׳להתאוורר׳ והטיל נפל בחדרן!
בישוב ליד ירושלים בתוך מרפסת הבית ולא התפוצץ!
בחולון - "טיל פספס ילד ברבע שנייה"" ניצלנו בנס!"
בנס ציונה - נפל באמצע כביש סואן! לא היו נפגעים
בת"א - רסיס רקטה גדול מאוד נפל בתחנת דלק ממש קרוב למשאבת הדלק!
באשקלון - במפעל נטוש..
שוב באשדוד - במרכז קניות ריק..
בנתיבות - טיל פגע בחצר בית בו מופעל גן ילדים שהיה ריק באותה עת..
באר שבע והדרום - שטחים פתוחים. שטחים פתוחים. שטחים פתוחים. כמה שטחים פתוחים יש לנו במדינה במרכזי אוכלוסין צפופים??
נזק לרכב. נזק לכביש. נפגע חרדה. נפגע מריצה למקלט. מלבד כמה פצועים לצערנו לאחר כמעט שבועיים של שיגורים של למעלה מ-800 מאות רקטות!!! (כיפת ברזל יירטה כ-150 מתוכם, איפה עוד 650 שנפלו?!)
שמישהו ימצא לי מקום אחד בעולם ששיגרו בלילה אחד יותר ממאה! טילים על אוכלוסייה צפופה ואין שום נפגעים בנפש...!
חובה להודות על הניסים כל יום.
yisroel, July 18, 2014 12:20 AM
Thank you, Batya, for the amazing list! May HaShem give
us even more reasons to thank Him! and we should then recognize them and, in fact, thank Him!
(49) Alice Kramaroff, July 17, 2014 11:10 AM
I feel very sade for all this hâte they have against the Jews ,
(48) Anonymous, July 17, 2014 10:14 AM
Protect better or leave
There is no point to fighting the Islamic crowd in France to try to hold on to land that does not benefit you. The Islamic mob has already caused many to flee their houses in France and as the Jews leave, the Muslims take over their real estate at reduced prices. This is Islamic tradition at its best. They would have been happiest beheading a few or all of us. They glorify in death. Gd saved you this time but you cannot rely on unarmed guards to hold back a mob. There should have been hundreds of arrests of the hooligans, but it appears that there weren't. That does not bode well. It empowers them to Repeat. Fight back by living in Israel and taking pride in your Judaism . Fighting over French soil should be left to the Christians .......they can protect their churches without our help. We have no reason to risk our lives in a place where we are not loved appreciated or cherished. Bhatzlacha.
(47) jo, July 16, 2014 7:20 PM
those people screaming, ranting and causing destruction are cheap low class thugs. they are not doing anything constructive to help their cause.
(46) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 6:25 PM
ALWAYS REMEMBER
FROM THE Haggadah :
And it is this that has stood by our ancestors and by us. That not one alone has risen up against us to destroy us, but rather in each and every generation they rise up against us to destroy us. And the Holy One, blessed be He, rescues us from their hands.
(45) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 6:20 PM
Leave France NOW
Unfortunately this is reminiscent of pre-WWII. Choose Life. Choose to LIVE. Our ancestors died so that we may continue. Live Free. Live as a JEW.
Let France learn the hard way. Because once the Jews leave, the rest of the insane terrorists will destroy the rest of the country and will continue on throughout Europe.
H" master of the universe has told us:
And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse.
(44) Israel, July 16, 2014 6:14 PM
Thugs
These are people who do not deserve to live in France; they not only broke the law by vandalizing properties and assault but do not know what real freedom of speech is while respecting others' right to worship in peace. They also instilled fear in the local population but not to the law enforcement which I strongly commend for doing such a wonderful job of dealing with these law breakers. This is terrorism and extremism at its best.
"Those Who Sacrifice Liberty For Security Deserve Neither. He who would trade liberty for some temporary security, deserves neither liberty nor security" (Benjamin Franklin)
(43) Crazyman, July 16, 2014 1:53 PM
Go back
The situation will not improve all over the world for the jews. they bring peace and knowledge to the world from Israel. the world is in chaotic situation. Israel this beautiful country. Why not go there ...
(42) Smuel, July 16, 2014 1:14 PM
Media Coverage
Needless to say the mainstream media did not even bother to cover this act of anti semitism in the heart of Europe.
( Checked different countries in Europe and US)
However CNN gave a detailed description how parents of an arab child collected his skull remains after an Israeli air raid but they failed to detail the murder of the three jewish teenagers. Speaking of bias.
(41) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 9:44 AM
why?
While it is best for Jews to leave I still wonder why it is so difficult for advanced europe to secure a very tiny section of its population. It will be interesting to know how many of these attackers were arrested and true identities established. How about potential attackers? If this religious related violence is allowed then ultimately every other group will get a dose of it.
Anonymous, July 16, 2014 12:14 PM
A country were i cannot be who i am in safety, unity and justice CANNOT be my country
You cannot wear your Kippas...Fear cannot glue me to a country. Freedom to choose what and why i fear, must lead me. Fear ONLY God. Leave such a place!
The nations of the world reject Jews and refuse to bless and be blessed by their presence within their communities. Jews, though painful, BE blessed by returning to Israel, blessed and set apart for you.
Nations are not deserving of Jews' loyalty, attachments. History has proven this. Fast of Tammuz reminds us. We ready for 9 of Av.
Any citizenship that does not include freedom, protection, love and justice to the citizen is not worth the cost.
Only 1 citizenship brings true eternal blessing, Israeli citizenship, no matter the cost. Non-jews are no longer worthy of God's blessing if HIS chosen People and chosen Land cannot be embraced. If suffering, difficulties and uncertainties lay before you no matter what, choose to be part of God's purposes and promises. Choose HIS side...Rather than hold on to comfort, loyalties, sentiments and worthless alliances.
Israel's fragile scenario is STRONGER, SURER than all nations. GOD spoke it to existence, HE is not man. HE does not lie.
(40) Hillel, July 16, 2014 9:30 AM
Choose life. Choose your homeland.
I personally beg the Jews of France to leave before it is too late. Choose life. Choose your homeland. It is not worth staying in France for the comfort of maintaining your life of the past. That life is gone forever. Move on to a better place. If you must, rebuild. The Jews of pre-war Europe would be happy to hear this advice. You need to live in a place where you can build a life for your children. Please, think of your futures, long and even short term.
Anonymous, July 16, 2014 6:54 PM
That great. Tell the Jews to run and hide this way history can keep repeating itself and the terrorists win. We stand up for what we believe in. We don't run
(39) Dolli, July 16, 2014 3:53 AM
Just ask Spain
Jews are a tremendous blessing to every nation, to every society, wherever they are. Just ask Spain. They now lament the devasting effects of their Inquisition and know that even 500 years afterwards they are still paying for the lunatic dictates of two crazy monarchs. Long live the jews and everyone who loves them!
(38) Redbeard, July 16, 2014 2:56 AM
Very sad but predictable!
The media is largely to blame for the biased and slanted distortion of the news coming out of Israel. They helped create this situation all over the world! The media has to take responsibility and reverse the way they report!
(37) Anonymous, July 16, 2014 1:16 AM
France, no friend of ours
France has never been a friend to the Jews. Throughout history, the French made overtures to us, only to turn around and stab us in the back. Their behavior during WWII was abominable, the Dreyfus Affair, and more. Why does France allow these vicious attacks? No one seems to be held responsible for them.
I would not step foot in that country, or practically any European country, nor buy any of their products, if they gave it to me for free. The French Jews have two choices, fight back, or leave.
(36) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 10:22 PM
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem
In a day and age where knowledge abounds there is a stream of consciousness that breeds injustice. War. Strife. Hatred. Oh that the masses would stand up, join hand in hand, and walk together in unity so that peace will overcome and justice will prevail!
(35) sharon, July 15, 2014 10:20 PM
Europe must choose
The Jewish community in every country contributes to education, the arts, business and science and has a low rate of criminal activity. The Arab population is just the opposite. Countries need to decide which citizens they value and act accordingly. It is getting late.
(34) Mary, July 15, 2014 9:49 PM
Why
It seems that whereever Muslims appear, peace is imposible. They go out of their ways to provoke violence and to bring about the destruction of the innocent.
(33) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 9:16 PM
Those Jews who can leave France are going
I was in Israel in Oct and heard more French than any other second language after Hebrew. Those with money are selling their Riviera estates and buying in Netanya. In Toronto, we are seeing a large wave of French Jews.
(32) George, July 15, 2014 7:08 PM
Close the borders
So many European countries have been over-run with muslim immigrants...immigrants who refuse to accept the civilized mores of a modern society, and instead bring with them the barbaric and inhumane practices of their homelands. It is way past time for Europe to seal their borders and send these agitators, criminals and terrorists-in-the making back to where their 6th Century practices are the everyday reality in an islamic theocracy.
(31) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 6:56 PM
The Hidden Troublemaker
I know that these people are terrorists and troublemakers. They are Radical Islamists/Radical Middle-Easterners, Hammas/ Al-Kieda, call it what you wish, living in European countries as guests of those countries. At the first instance of involved trouble or racial, religious, or political strife, they should be expelled. There is absolutely no room for this behavior in our society or in the society of any other country. Let's not be fooled and not be complacent. No one country wants to do anything because they fear retribution from radicals. It is time for a concerted united and strong front and not be afraid of retribution. Look at little Israel. Can you imaging if they just let these things go on forever. No way...They have said "Enough". Well I say "Enough" too. And all good and decent people should not stand silent to this terrible threat to humanity and decency. Just throw them the hell out. There is no room for this type of person. They are the maggots of society and the dregs of the earth. Their main purpose is to destroy the common good, good decent people, and to inflict radicalism to everyone, everywhere. Yes, Equal justice under the Law for everyone must stand.
I do not say we have to have a Police State, but strict laws have to be developed, if not already done so, and the law must be adhered to for all people. After all, the peace of the world is going to be at stake again if we just sit idly by and wait for it to go away. It won't. Speak up now everyone for good and decent people everywhere and with strong and swift punishment for all those who disturb the peace, or disrespect others rights, freedoms, and pursuit of happiness.
(30) Pamela, July 15, 2014 6:34 PM
I've said it before and I'll say it again
All jews in Europe should move to Israel; its unfortunate that it has come to this, Jews are a blessing to every nation they reside in; if a nation does not realize this, it's their loss.
David, July 15, 2014 11:51 PM
What does this say about Zionism, though?
The Jews are supposed to return on wings of eagles. The Jews of France and other places are running for their lives. Is this really fulfillment of the prophetic ingathering? Or is it jumping from one gallus to another, where people who so happen to be of Jewish heritage are in charge, imposing toeiva parades on the public? It just doesn't fit with the image of messianic redemption, and I wonder if it can last.
Miriam, July 16, 2014 4:07 AM
Agree.
I am in complete agreement - it is time to go home to Israel - and yes the blessings that the nations receive from Jewish nationals, as they move to the the Land, will be taken with them!
(29) miriam w cohen, July 15, 2014 5:51 PM
you expected help from the French Police?
So,you live in France, a place that has a long history of anti -semitisim and you are surprised at the response of the police? And of your Moslem neighbors, let alone the old time French. My goodness, do you not know your history?
Not a good situation at all. I sympathize with your plight, scary to live in a place where you are not given police protection. It does sound familiar to me.
(28) yehudit, July 15, 2014 5:48 PM
So frightening!!
I can't image the horror of being stuck inside the synagogue with children…….This is as case of Kristallnacht all over again, only this time there was protection, BARELY.
How can it be that the procession was allowed to continue by the Police if they were calling for the death of French citizens??!!! THis bodes very ominously for the future…..
On the other hand, it must be heartbreaking for the French community to have to consider emigration, being the wonderful and contributory community that they are. Noone wants to give in to terror.
Don't think of it as giving in to terror. Think of it as giving in to LIFE. LEAVE BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE. You are lucky, you have history as your guide. The Jews of holocaust europe were not so lucky….
(27) Patti Dolman, July 15, 2014 5:17 PM
Guess Who Is Next?
Do you really think that if all the Jews leave France, that will be the end of violence? Christians are next because the mantra of Islamic leaders is that they will rule the world. It's a long range plan.
Anonymous, July 16, 2014 2:20 AM
The Muslim fanatics see planning to take over the world.
I agree the Christians will be the next targets.
(26) AL, July 15, 2014 5:07 PM
why no media
Why nothing of these events been presented by the media !!??
(25) Lia, July 15, 2014 4:58 PM
Did I miss this -- or did the US media miss this?
This is so unbelievable that I had to check the date and make sure it was current. It seems like those who make the most noise are getting the most support from the masses who don't take time to think for themselves
(24) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 4:53 PM
France signed her own death warrant
When France allowed such vast numbers of muslims into her borders further allowed them to maintain their 'identity' and not assimilate, she basically surrendered to the enemy as a willing participant. Sad. Jews should leave France ASAP, because it will not ever be the same again. Soon it will be another 1930's Germany, only much, much worse.
(23) Jack bender, July 15, 2014 4:41 PM
Defend defend
Jews must defend themselves everywhere....use dogs clubs zappers blackjacks..even guns if needed...that is our lot...defend ..or suffer...
(22) Ingrid from Berlin, July 15, 2014 4:27 PM
We should not be silent
Outside of Israel there is more and more anti-semitism. People are too lazy to study what’s going on in Israel. They are afraid by Muslim fundamentalists because if you critizise them, these people will fight you with all kinds of threats: words, aggressions, blessing and intimidating.
We should not have any Illusion: they hate the Western world as they hate Jews. What about the role of police in a democratic state? Fundamentalists don’t fear them. It seems to me that in Europe police is almost helpless against them. We saw it already several years ago in the outskirts of Paris. The film “Hate” showed the situation very clearly.
If Jews leave France, this will be a loss and a reason to fear the worst.
(21) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 4:15 PM
yidden leave now
we have to have a kol koreh for the yidden to come home to israel true we also have arabs to deal with, but we r not at the mercy of the govt and it prejudices
(20) Harold H. Levy, July 15, 2014 4:08 PM
Another instance of True French Hate
I studied French for four years in school because I had admired how they fought for their freedom from despotism.. Iam so sorry that my Uncle was killed in WW1 in france and my best friend in ww2. I was fortunate to miss France during my 4 year enlistment.
(19) Betel Guese, July 15, 2014 4:06 PM
God is calling you home. Go before He releases the hunters.
I pray often for your safety.That is found in God. God is calling you home. Go before He releases the hunters.
(18) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:56 PM
France as a country is not anti Semitic
We have French friends we go to France a lot France as a country is not anti Semitic
(17) Barbara Goldin, July 15, 2014 3:48 PM
Praying for Peace and Being Attacked
Yes, it is time indeed for all Jews and if inter-faith married, to leave France. Time to move and live where you are welcomed. Israel is number # 1, America is Number 2.
Yoram, July 15, 2014 5:21 PM
Hello Barbara
America is nr 2 not for long- antisemitism in America exists and is hidden. Lots of mob in America .
AmericanThinker, July 15, 2014 5:47 PM
Simplistic
Obama is not going to let 500,000 French Jews into America. They might not vote for free his free stuff.
(16) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 3:43 PM
I am a child of holocaust survivors.
After reading this article, I am sickened by this demonstration of hate of Israel and the Jewish nation.
My husband and I are not interested in visiting France or any European city. Why tour this anti-Semitic country?
Europe and Sweden are being taken over by the Muslims and Europe will suffer financially for their reckless abandon of the Jews in World War II and now.
How sad that the Muslims value death and the contributions the Jews have given to the world.
Thank you Hashem she lo asani goy.
(15) elisheva chaya, July 15, 2014 3:39 PM
we we all have to go back to Eretz Yisroel
I completley agree with the first subcriber.
(14) Sara Yoheved Rigler, July 15, 2014 3:37 PM
Thank you for this article
It was edifying to read the account from inside the synagogue, from Monsieur Benhaim's vantage point. Since hearing of the attack, I have been thinking, "When will they come to Israel?" I was gratified to read the ending, that that is exactly what our French brothers and sisters are concluding. I wish all the Jews of Europe would come to Israel--before it is too late. How many warnings do we need?
(13) Sister M. Michele, July 15, 2014 3:29 PM
The World is at War with Terrorists
If only the nations of the world would take as their example what Israel is now doing to protect their people, their country. Our world today is gradually being fed into the mouth of a hungry alligator, handed over to the fangs and ultimately to be devoured by a snake so poisonous and vicious that most nations fear it, and some even appease it. Israel is not only confronting this evil, but seeks to destroy it, though with little support from the rest of the world. God bless Canada for strongly standing on the side of Israel in this time of need. As for so many others: we ought to recall that if Hitler had been stopped early, how many lives would have been spared... How much suffering and destruction would have been avoided... We cannot condone evil, nor can we compromise with evil. Terrorism is evil. Our prayers should be that we will not be afraid of evil, but face it, deal with it, overcome it. Peace, security,and the respect of the freedom for all are the basic God-given rights of all. We must as one body, one heart and spirit, battle the evil that threatens us, attacks us, and with the help of the Almighty, take down this present-day Goliath.
(12) Keila Bina Dean, July 15, 2014 3:03 PM
Shalom!
It is shameful for ppl to sit quietly while others stir crowds to violence and acts of hate. It is not the will of Elohim for anyone to spread hate and insight murder in the streets. We must be wise and brave, but not ashame of our relationship with Yahweh the one true creator of the universe.
(11) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:58 PM
The Jews have to leave before it will be too late
And this is also the sign that France will not be the country it used to be again.
(10) Geoffrey L Rogg, July 15, 2014 2:50 PM
Attack on Paris Synagogue
I have constantly commented on the different experiences and views of the Ashkenazi Jews and Sephardic Jews in France. From my own personal experience the majority of Jews leaving France are Sephardic Jews of North African descent. The voice of the Ashkenazi Franch community has been noticeably silent during these incidents. Why?
Ra'anan, July 16, 2014 6:03 AM
Sefaradim are the vast majority of Jewry in France
Ashkenazim are a very small minority in France today & that's probably the reason you've not heard from them, but why would it matter to you? Do you ask the same question when an Israeli speaks (whether he's Sefaradi or Ashkenazi)? Why would it matter?
(9) Edan, July 15, 2014 2:46 PM
Before it was the Nazis
Now it's the other violent Fascists in the World. Anyone could have seen this coming. When the throngs of Muslims filled the streets in Paris, making their supplications to Satan, and the Murdering War Lord, their fake Prophet. It was obvious it would eventually turn to this, and the French would have no will to stop it. It already started in Boston, over the weekend, and it will spread to other US cities as well, and the will to stop it will be just as feeble. Jews don't matter. We are trouble makers after all, and the Synagogue of Satan. Even though the text in the New Testament that both the Christians and Muslims adhere too, makes them, the idolators of the replacement theology, the Real Synagogue of Satan.
So what do we do? We all must make Aliyah? Is Israel capable of absorbing us all? Even now the building in Judea and Samaria and other areas has slowed to a crawl, trying to appease those who say. IF they would just make peace and give up MORE land. Everything will be okay. NO, It won't.
(8) Cynthia, July 15, 2014 2:45 PM
Reading this broke my heart,
I cannot believe there are such evil people in this so called modern world. These demonstrators should not be allowed to be so
violent and should be arrested unless they conduct their beliefs in a moire civilised way.
(7) Angel, July 15, 2014 2:42 PM
You are not alone.Many nonjews will fight for Israel. Never again!
(6) Nurit Amichai, July 15, 2014 2:42 PM
Do you get it yet?
For centuries our people have considered France and the French dangerous. They have not rushed to our aid in times of crisis and have continuously harbored muslims who seek our demise. Now the muslims run the country and Jews are on the endangered species lists. What will it take for you to leave and come to the only place on the planet that offers you real comfort, safety and solice? Why do you continue to believe that they will finally embrace you because you sing "koom by ya?" Wake up! Time is running out and they really are after your blood. muslims aren't happy until Jewish blood is spilled and they lap it up ... grinning and singing allah uakbar. Come home, to Israel. No, it isn't easy here, but at least you're among your own kind and we won't hunt you down, lock you in a synagogue and terrify your children. Come home - where your real brothers and sisters wait for you. Come to Israel, the land allotted us by the Creator. Come here, or is the smell of France so strong that you can't leave the garlic and onions? We grow them here, too. You can eat as much as you like and you can actually tell when your enemy is going to launch a hit at you. Here they don't tell you they like you and then strike you - here tell tell you they hate you and we send out the IDF.
Come home.
(5) Anonymous, July 15, 2014 2:36 PM
They Hate Because we Trust
Historically, the hate that other nations have towards Jews and to Israel has, at times, been either subtly nuanced, or openly hostile. It is amazing that 70 years after one of worlds most heinous unrestrained hate crimes, once again the hate is open, hostile, and directed towards Jews.
There is no longer even a token attempt to hide the hate behind anti-Israeli politics or positions. It is now pure "kill the Jews". And, yet, even as this goes on, no nation, no leader, no community organizer has the courage to step up and protest. This attack is not on any major news media outlet, or internet outlet.
What have we done to stir up such emotion? We conduct ourselves as Jews and we show the world we are different. We are compassionate, we are caring, and we have the same lofty ideals most left leaning democracies have. Yet, at the same time we are very conservative in our views of God, in what is wrong or right, and we have the courage to stand behind them. We don't choose the easy path, we choose the correct path.
It is once again up to us as Jews to defend ourselves, and to look to the only place that we have ever found any guidance and help.
Just as God has his hand overtly stopping missiles from raining down on our families in Israel, protecting the Shul in Paris, and in the same way he has protected us for thousands of years, we have to trust that we will be watched over at this time.
But make no mistake. The time for prayer, even according to the Torah's teaching of the story of Isaac and Esav, is after all other preparations have taken place. We have given gifts, we have separated out civilians and family, and we have an army ready. Now we pray, and trust.
(4) nicola, July 15, 2014 2:35 PM
pogrom?
How is it possible that these occurances appear to be pogroms all over again, how history repeats itself again and again so shameful and ignorant these people are so miss informed, these occurances back up what the prophetic word in the Sciptures tell us is coming. But G-d will intervene when Israel is surrounded by her enemies.
(3) Alaine Apap Bologna, July 15, 2014 2:34 PM
Outrageous
I was told as a child, that the French were more antisemitic than any other European countrymen. This came from a French resistant, of Jewish ancestry, who went through many camps on WW2. I see, yet again, that he was right. How outrageous and how sad!
(2) Maureen, July 15, 2014 2:01 PM
Deja-vu in Europe
What a chilling article. It seems Europeans lack the ability to protect it's citizens, and the French seem particularly unable to contain it's huge Islamic population when they act as a mob, as they did during the Paris riots several years ago when hundreds of cars were burnt in Parisian boulevards while the police tried helplessly to contain the rioters. This is not just a tragedy for the Jews but for the French whose long and rich culture is threatened from within.
(1) Yehudith Shraga, July 15, 2014 10:38 AM
Parisians observed the events without saying anything
By keeping silent, when the Jews are attacked, the world in general, and France in particular prove again that the Holocaust took place from their complete agreement!
The History repeats itself for them to have a chance to rehabilitate their shameful behavior during the 2nd world war, while it seems they lack any understanding of what is going on.
When the Jews leave their countries, thanks G-d we have now our State, that very mob will do to them exactly what they were going to do to the Jews, as it happens already in some countries which are left by most of the Jews long ago.
The Holocaust didn't start with concentration camps, it started with the silence of the world , which let the Hitler do what ever he wished to do to the unarmed people.
This time it's a "bit" different, we are not unarmed anymore and it makes other nations think that they have a right to teach us morals, they are so angry with Israel, that It dares to protect Itself and to fight back, that they allow the Arabs to do and to say whatever those wish.
It seems they use these Arabs to express their own wishes to see the world without Jews and Jewish state, what they do not know, that there may not be the world without Jews, and Jewish State because without us they are going to return to the wild state as their immorality will have nobody to get stopped.
We have to rely upon the G-d and ourselves, we have to be friendly with the world, but we may not rely upon any other nation, because their "love " to us ends, exactly where their interests in Middle East end.
G-d Bless the People of Israel and the people of Good Will in all the world and Help us overcome the battle for the Future of the world to be enlightened with Peace and the activity for the best benefits of the humanity.
rachel, July 15, 2014 2:50 PM
Wow you definitely summed it up perfectly!
C Dorsett, July 15, 2014 3:09 PM
Parisans observed without saying anything
What would bother me most is if the French government does not take action. Condemning the actions of these protestors is one thing but they need to make a strong stand. They need to arrest the organizers of this event. Clearly these individuals had intentions to cause harm. I am sure that these individual needed some sort of permit to have their march therefore hold those organizers responible for these terrorist acts. If they dont then they condone the actions that were taken.
Judy, July 15, 2014 3:23 PM
I ask you my Lord and God protect your people
The Lord sees all and knows the hearts of all. We who believe in Him know He has a plan even though we can't see it or understand it.