The stench of anti-Semitism is thick in the air. And it stinks.
After the candle light vigils are over, the emotional speeches by politicians and community members given, the memorials and flowers left at the doors of devastation, we must ask ourselves, “Now what?”
I was born upon the ashes of the Holocaust. For years the stories of my grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins were my story. My siblings and our children carried their holy names knowing that we have been gifted with life so that we may live for them. They perished in the gas chambers but we endured. We triumphed over the Nazis who wished to stomp us off the face of the earth.
Along with our names we carry an awesome responsibility. So we kindle our Shabbos candles for them, celebrate our holidays, study Torah, love our people and transmit a legacy to the next generation as they would have if they had survived.
With time, a complacency has set in. The years before my dear mother’s passing, she repeated the following lines to all who would listen:
“Listen to me. I’ve seen this before... The world is on fire and we are sleeping.”
“I know what I’m talking about, kinderlach. Listen to me. I’ve seen this before. I can’t be silent. We are getting a wake-up call. The world is on fire. So much is happening just like it did when I was a little girl. And we are sleeping. We are just sleeping.”
Some may have listened, others shrugged. Some said this didn’t seem to apply to them. None really thought that anything terrible could truly happen here in these glorious United States of America where freedom rings. Jews here are safe. We are comfortable. We are happy and prosperous. This is not Europe, after all.
But then one of the deadliest attacks on Jews in the history of the United States happened. We have arrived.
The day comes when things will never be the same. We wake up to the radiant sun and the sky is still blue but life is forever transformed.
My mother described the day she came home from school in March, 1944 and called out, “Mommy, I’m home!” There was silence. My mother, a first grader at the time, found her mother in the kitchen crying.
“Mommy, what happened?”
There was only silence. My mother’s heart began to pound. My grandmother stared at her little girl but couldn’t manage to utter a word.
“Please mommy, what happened?”
“The evil Nazis have come. They want to kill us.”
My grandfather’s gentle voice called from the background. “Don’t tell the child such terrible things!”
But my grandmother was always known to cut to the truth. She responded, “There’s no sense in hiding the facts. She will have to find out sooner or later.”
The Nazi occupation of Szeged began.
One night a heated discussion took place in my grandparents’ home. A Jew had escaped from Poland and told grisly tales of Jews being gassed and thrown into burning ovens. No one believed it possible. This was still a country of culture, music, and art. The world was civilized. The man was probably insane.
October 27, 2018 – the massacre occurs in the Tree of Life synagogue as the shooter bursts into Shabbat morning services with an AR-15 style assault rifle and three handguns. A baby naming ceremony is taking place. The shooter shouts anti-Semitic slogans and begins firing.
11 Jews are slaughtered because they were Jews.
Anti-Semitic incidents rose 57 percent in 2017 with 1,986 documented events, and many of these increases were seen in high schools and college campuses. There is Jew-hatred, Israel hatred, boycotts and bashing of Israel while the world ignores travesties of justice taking place throughout the world. Students are afraid to identify themselves as Jews. There are open shouts and web posts calling for the killing of Jews.
This is not about gun control, security guards, self-defense courses or a discussion on politics. This is about our Jewish people and the future of our nation. It is about our children and our children’s children. Are we sleeping while history is happening before our very eyes?
“I am a different Jew today than I was yesterday. I hope that the Jew I am today will be stronger.”
Sophie Levin, a sophomore at Allderdice HS whose mother and grandparents attend the Tree of Life synagogue said that the mass shooting changed her. “Anti-Semitism was something that happened in history that happened in other places,” she said. “I am a different Jew today than I was yesterday. I hope that the Jew I am today will be stronger.”
Dear Sophie, I am speaking to you and to the young beautiful souls of your generation.
You are growing up in a world filled with hatred. Too many times there was silence when Jewish blood was spilled. The world is ready to say Kaddish for us, to create a memorial, to write us off in the history books. Our brothers and sisters in Israel are fighting for their very life each day. Bombings, massacres, stabbings, underground tunnels to kidnap us have become the norm. The U.N. debates our right to exist. Here in the U.S. it has become easy to shout virulent slogans against our people, saying, “We are not against Jews, it is Israel that we have a problem with.” A convenient way of saying, “We hate Jews.”
You say that you are a different Jew today and that you hope to be a stronger Jew. I applaud your words.
Here’s my hope. I hope that you know that being a stronger Jew means that you live with the faith of your bubbies and zaydies who walked before you. I hope that you forge the path ahead by knowing where you have come from. We are a nation that has survived destruction of our temples in Jerusalem, exile, pogroms, crusades, inquisition, gas chambers and savage terrorism. We have traveled the four corners of the earth; we are weary and yet the Jewish spark still burns within our hearts. It will never be extinguished. This is a promise from God, but it’s up to us to keep the flickering flame strong.
It is up to us, up to you and your generation, to define the strength that keeps the Jewish people going. It is the connection to our Torah and the timeless wisdom that lies within that is our oxygen. It is the love and lack of judgment between Jews that brings us to unity. No shooter asks which type of Jew you are.
May God watch over us all and grant us peace.
See also:
(34) Jankel, March 28, 2019 3:29 PM
waking up and 2nd Amendment?
Jews in the USA FIGHTING against the 2nd Amenment and preparing what Jews suffered in Europe since Middle Age end: disarming of guns and submission to a nunreliable State police army a,d Justice....is not only a crime against your nearest ones, but a suicide each One should decide for Himself Alone Only...!
(33) Mr. Cohen, November 4, 2018 5:14 AM
Victim Status
Even after the Pittsburgh Synagogue Massacre, Jews are still not granted Victim Status according to the rules of Political Correctness.
Jews will NEVER be granted Victim Status according to the rules of Political Correctness, regardless of how much they suffer.
According to the rules of Political Correctness, Black lives matter, but Jewish lives do not matter, and never will matter.
(32) Anonymous, November 4, 2018 2:37 AM
Moving forward together, with faith:
May I share, as a way of moving forward together, that I heard some of a speech by Rabbi Daniel Travis regarding the massacre in Pittsburgh. It happened on a Shabbos, and the next Shabbos (which we just passed as I write this) was 25 Cheshvan 5779 in the Jewish Calendar, the fourth Yahrtzheit of the holy souls who were murdered in their synagogue (that Rabbi Travis attends) in Har Nof in Israel. Rabbi Travis wrote a book called "Messages, Memories and Miracles From the Har Nof Massacre". I would like to get a copy and read it. I remember hearing a request from the surviving family members, as I think the first yahrtzheit was approaching, to bring more light into the world to honor those lost, by increasing in mitzvoth, including Jewish women and girls asking Jewish women and girls to light Shabbos candles. I was embarassed to do it here in America where (until Pittsburgh) many Jews didn't generally relate to anti-semetic murders, but G-d let me meet some young ladies from Israel, who sure did, and were willing to light Shabbos candles! We all want Moshiach, when we will see the holy souls back again and there will be a complete world of revealed good. Sometimes gentiles kindly express support of the Jewish people. Thank you! Keep going! You can also encourage Jews who might have become alienated from Judaism from lack of educational opportunities, and not feeling proud of who G-d made them, that their distinctly Jewish mitzvoth, such as going to Jewish synagogues, women and girls lighting Shabbos candles, and men putting on tefillin, proudly, are important, even if, and perhaps, especially if, you are strong in other faiths. It is important that today's "sophisticated" Jews take the time to learn the basic holy Jewish "alef, beit"-- how to read Hebrew for prayer and Bible study. It's wonderful if Jews can be encouraged to visit Israel too. May we all see ourselves as human beings, and Jews and Judaism in a positive way, with love. Thank you.
(31) Jean-Victor Côté, November 4, 2018 1:58 AM
It would seem to me that you should make yourself known
Ignorance breeds many evils, one of which being hate. Rabbi Sacks of the UK is very good at making Jews better known, I have no doubt that there are many others.
(30) Anonymous, November 2, 2018 6:26 PM
Come on - Here you are explicitly calling out "AR-15 Style Assault RIfles", and simultaneously saying "it's not about gun control". We're not stupid, you know.
Here's a little history lesson for you. This Jew
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ze%27ev_Jabotinsky
- the proverbial "voice crying in the wilderness" - went around Europe in the 1930's advising Jews that they'd better learn to shoot, - " Juden, lernt schießen" - because he saw what was coming.
The Jews did neither - instead they sat around wailing and praying and wringing their hands, until the Einsatzgruppen came for them.
So, are we going to keep wailing and praying this time (not to mention mindlessly yelling "AR-15")? Maybe that if we're so stupid that we can't learn from the past, we're just going to collectively win the Darwin Award.
(29) Johan, October 31, 2018 9:02 AM
I love, and pray for you
I am not Jewish. I am a Pastor of a Christian Church in South Africa.
I met a number of Jewish people and bought many of your books written by respected Rabbis.
I don’t know the ‘differences’ between yourself (viewpoints of Torah maybe)? We have that as well.
But I love you!
But I know you love Hashem and the Torah.
But I know you expect Messiah to come soon.
May Hashem grant us peace and grace to not turn on each other, but faithfully look unto G-d, the Author and Finisher of our faith.
I don’t have answers how to deal with this. But I know Hashem is and will always be in control, even if it cost us pain and sorrow in this world.
My sincere condolences to the grieving families.
I love you, G-d bless you!
(28) Smadar Prager, October 31, 2018 4:04 AM
Oy Slovie, you have a way with words.
God bless you. As usual, you are speaking truths, and touching sould with your words. May we all hear only Besorot Tovot.
(27) John A. Bischop, October 30, 2018 5:15 PM
sad sad sad sad sad
tears are flowing here...
(26) Ruth Broch, October 30, 2018 1:24 PM
WHY??
Why are you still living in America, you and all of you Jews? Are you completely crazy?? Get out now and come home to our ONLY homeland, Eretz Yisrael!
Anonymous, October 31, 2018 11:16 PM
Israel before Moshiach has deadly anti-semitism
It is taught and preached and funded by Israeli tax money, that is supposed to go to humanitarian aid, is one example of why we don't all move there. Also, Israeli soldiers have been imprisoned on a regular basis for saving Jewish lives when it was against orders, or for refusing to expel Jews from their homes etc. Do the names Yamit, Amona, Gush Katiff etc. ring a bell in terms of expulsions of Jews from their homes, including the many Jews who came from other lands where they were persecuted and tried to settle in Israel, only to be ousted and trampled on by the current residents of Gaza etc. etc. who are not lone wolves, but who give out candy to the children upon hearing one of the MANY adherents to anti-semitism LIVING in Israel managed to kill Jews. Blessings to all. We all really want good. I know you mean good. We owe it to those in Pittsburgh to follow their lead of bringing goodness to this world as Jews. We're with them. I know you are too. It just hurts so much that we get worked up. Thanks for helping to bring Moshiach in your own way, Ruth. It's not crazy that it's not everybody's way. It's healthy that we all care in different ways. We need to support each other wherever we are, especially close to home, and the Land of Israel is a priority for Jews everywhere.
Natan, November 1, 2018 10:28 AM
Can't change it if you're not there
On a practical level: If there was a massive surge of Jews to Israel, those Jews could vote and change things.
G-d expects us to do the work in Israel. It ain't going to happen "magically", as Rambam points out.
Anonymous, November 1, 2018 11:29 AM
As stated above, Jews DID move there
and look what happened. They were jailed as soldiers, expelled as people who worked, prayed and served in the army hard. They have been subject to terror attacks in their synagogues etc etc. Thosr who have been there for generations and generations (and I'm happy for them!) and those who went their idealistically, for love of the land, being thrown out or fled other lands by persecution have found themselves subject to "government" they "voted" for that has to make "deals" with our worst enemies. Maimonides NEVER described that sort of thing as the key to the redemption. Mitzvah observance wherever anyone is is not "magical". It's miraculous. It is a spiritual reality, to connect with G-d (rather than man-made politics which is a mirage in terms of "salvation"). This Shabbos is the fourth yahrtzheit of the holy souls, killed in their synagogue in Harnov, Israel. Among them, those who moved from Israel from the USA, and vote in Israeli elections.
Anonymous, November 1, 2018 11:39 AM
Correction
That was supposed to say "those who moved TO Israel from the USA". The main thing is to honor every soul. We can agree to disagree "Two Jews, three opinions". We so mourn the loss of life and so look forward to salvation. To those who mentioned Rambam/Maimonides let's learn towards honoring and healing. Most Jewish prayer books include, after morning prayers, the thirteen principles of faith he codified. And let's judge each other favorably as the Pittsburgh Comminity is known to do. Our attention is brought to them. Blessings!
Anonymous, November 1, 2018 11:47 AM
Among those killed in Israel for being Jewish
are those who moved TO Israel I mean from the USA...and elsewhere. Let's live now, according to Rambam/Maimonides. Go openly and proudly to Synagogue this Shabbos and look for Maimonides' principles of faith in the prayer book. Blessings to you all in memory of all those we've lost and will see again with the coming of Moshiach as Maimonides/Rambam codifies etc.
(25) Maria Dodoc, October 29, 2018 9:01 PM
Thank You!
(24) BRUCE, October 29, 2018 5:55 PM
THE SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM
The solution is obvious. Jews must be armed. Every capable Jewish person should conceal carry a handgun, and every synagogue and Jewish school should have armed guards. Enough of the weak, liberal, self-defeating fecklessness of the progressive American Jewish thought. It's time for American Jews to arm, vote for conservative politicians, eschew the Democrats (they are anti-Semitic and anti-Israel), and wake up.
Anonymous, October 29, 2018 10:32 PM
Enough already
"Enough of the weak, liberal, self-defeating fecklessness of the progressive American Jewish thought."
Will you never learn?
The hatred toward the "other" has to stop.
11 people were murdered due to anti-Semitism, and STILL the divisive rhetoric continues.
They won't ask you what kind of Jew you are, they won't care your denomination, your political affiliation.
It is enough.... but I know I am talking to the wall.
Jonah Steinberg, October 29, 2018 11:33 PM
You are playing into their hands
I have so many comments to this extremist viewpoint I don't know where to start. You are confusing wisdom with weakness. Violence first has always been the way of our enemies. If we were to adopt the same tactics, it will soon be difficult to tell the instigator from the victim. Furthermore, violence, fear, insecurity, these are what our enemies want to turn us into. Do you forget that the antisemitic terrorists' only goal is to incite a holy war? Those that sit on the sidelines will see the armed Jews as just as much a threat as their enemies. Actually, to fight antisemitism not with like hatred, but with education, legislation and Faith is not only the most noble approach, but the most courageous path to take. Perhaps you are the one who should wake up.
Anonymous, October 29, 2018 11:47 PM
Be Still My Heart
Thank You !!!
Yoni, October 30, 2018 5:08 AM
Common Sense
Unfortunately, in the crazy times we live in, simple common sense dictates that every shul should have some members armed. No amount of legislation will ever convince any of the Hitler wannabes to give up their guns. So I respectfully disagree with you, to fight anti semitisim exclusively with legislation and not take the initiative to defend yourself, in my opinion is naive, foolhardy and ultimately dangerous.
Dina, October 30, 2018 3:00 PM
I agree with Yoni & others who say we need to be armed
What makes Jews so easy to attack? It's because they know we want peace and love your fellow human. But, it's not enough. We need to stand up and show them that we will fight back. We need to belike the Jews of the Warsaw Ghetto. We need to follow the Maccabees and to be like those in the IDF. People need to know that we Jews will fight for ourselves. Gun control is useless. Anyone can buy a gun off the street. If a gunman knows we will shoot back and shoot to kill, he will be less likely to attack. We need to stand up for ourselves. I hate to get into politics, but liberal Jews need to see that in this Congressional race, many of the Democrats they usually vote for have called on the destruction of Israel. Now, Israeli has been used as a smokescreen to mean all Jews. It's not just the White Supremacists calling for our destruction. Look at how liberal Jews cake out against the idea that Israel is a Jewish nation! Israel is homeland for ALL Jews. I plan to move back to Israel as soon as I can.
anonymous, October 30, 2018 8:57 AM
Time to understand divergent paths
In our American democracy we should be and feel safe, with a President that does everything they are able, to combat discrimination and racism, hatred of the other, at every cost.
Pittsburgh changed me.
What I am realizing is that the needs of Israeli Jews is different from those of American Jews.
And that while I wanted a President that supported Israel, not at the expense of American Jews, who have a *right* as citizens here to feel safe, without the fomenting of hatred that President Trump contributed to - I see it as leading to what happened.
It emboldened the neo-Nazi far right, and lives have been lost.
I will make my voice known at the polls
Yoni, October 30, 2018 10:17 AM
Unfortunate
It’s truly unfortunate to see people blaming the a politician for the act of an evil man. This man was always evil, way before Trump came around. President Trump has actually condemned Anti-Semitism more strongly and directly than any president in history. As an American Jew, I care deeply about my brothers and sisters in Israel, and President Trump has stood by Israel more than any president in history. I too will make my voice heard at this he ballot box. While I wasn’t keen on President Trump before the election, he’s proven himself to be the best friend Jews can hope for.
I believe we all have a sacred duty to show our hakaros hatov on Election Day.
(23) Mia Sherwood Landau, October 29, 2018 3:55 PM
The Rebbetzin Warned Us
Thank you for sharing the Rebbetzin's warning with the world now, Slovie. Thank you for having the courage, tenacity and love to keep it up, because many Jews are asleep. Again. Just as the Rebbetzin warned us. When I heard the horrific news from Pittsburg last weekend, I actually thought about her and heard her voice in my head, having listened to many videos posted by Hineni. I pray for the elevation of the eternal souls of those we have lost, and for the wisdom and awareness we all need in this world now.
(22) Wilson Nyariwo, October 29, 2018 2:45 PM
It is sad indeed!
History is meant to make us grow to be better beings, but not to repeat the same mistakes. These differences bases on our racial background will not help us. Let us respect the Jews, let them have their space for we all need one another in this world.
(21) Susan Goldtein, October 29, 2018 2:08 PM
Beautifully said
(20) Richard, October 29, 2018 1:34 PM
I truly lack understanding!
We have just started reading our Torah. We have been dysfunctional from the beginning. Hashem destroyed mankind with the flood and so we are the descendants of Noah. All of us are family! Hashem then destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. There are a myriad of events depicting the evils of humanity. History depicts the continuity of evil throughout history. Not just against Jews, but against human beings, the animal kingdom, our environment, etc. We have been blessed with the miracles and wonders of life by our creator but we continuously endeavor to destroy our world. I pray every day that Hashem restores goodness and sanity to our world. I would be more than happy to partner in that process. However, without him taking command, I don't know.
(19) Japhet, October 29, 2018 10:54 AM
Defend Israelis
I am for Israel and will defend you thru prayers.. Stand your ground. Massiach is coming soon....
(18) Selma Adler, October 29, 2018 10:24 AM
Why no mention of the enabler Donald J. Trump and his administration?
Why stay "schtum" instead of speaking truth to power.
...because Trump moved the embassy to Jerusalem?
...because his son in law is Jewish?
We are not victims of antisemitism unless we pretend to be
clueless and deny the obvious sources to come to light and we are willing to expose them
for all to see
Yoni, October 29, 2018 10:38 AM
For the record
For the record, this murderer hated Trump. Please, instead of stooping to partisan politics, let’s remember, this is a message from G-d. The message is clear, Jews, you need to wake up. Be better people, closer to G-d and his Torah.
Sylvia, October 29, 2018 3:00 PM
Why stay "schtum" about the left's rhetoric?
There has been an equal amount of dangerous rhetoric coming from the left.
Anonymous, October 29, 2018 10:39 PM
No !
Don't you dare compare the Nazi extreme right, that is responsible for the deaths of these Church and Synagogue killings, to the Left.
Stupidity, ignorance, lack of a conscience.
A lack of tolerance for anyone puts us all in danger, and clearly you read a different Torah than I do.
Our portion was just about welcoming the stranger.
HaShem is telling us something, and it isn't about more guns.
Pathetic.
Anonymous, October 30, 2018 5:16 AM
Ummm yes...
Unfortunately, there’s enough stupidity to go around both on the right and the left. The lefts support for the BDS movement, the Iranian nuclear deal that would have put millions of Jewish lives in danger, leftist politicians cozying up to the likes of Hitler wannabe Farahkan etc. the list goes on and on. So instead of blaming politicians for the actions of evil men, blame just the evil man that committed this act.
And let’s all take a better look in the Torah and try to understand G-ds message to us. After all, that’s where our focus should be.
(17) lisa, October 29, 2018 8:42 AM
Be strong... but how??
Of course we need to be strong & hang on to our Jewish values. But how? Please gives real examples of how to do this in this hectic world we live in. Thank you! & yes.... we are sleeping!!! Please wake us up!!!!
Natan, October 29, 2018 9:40 AM
Yes, wake up and move to Israel
See my comments below in the other posts below.
Anonymous, October 31, 2018 11:27 PM
I found real life examples...
Among the Pittsburgh children. They are being helped to heal by reaching out and affirming their Jewish values (and downright Joy to be Jews) with strength. Try googling "For 75 year-old Pittsburgh Yeshiva, Tragedy Crosses Generations" by Dovid Margolin. Each generation is finding a way to survive, thrive, and give. You can do it, Lisa. Thanks for your care.
(16) Anonymous, October 29, 2018 2:04 AM
Leaders tell Trump he is not welcome
It is reported at The Hill and also on the website of Bend The Arc Pittsburgh, Jewish leaders tell President Trump he is not welcome in Pittsburgh until he denounces Nationalism.
Yoni, October 29, 2018 3:02 AM
Thank you President Trump
President Trump has strongly denounced anti semitisim. And by all accounts, even of his fiercest critics, his response to this has been great. So what’s their point? To take advantage of this tragedy to take a cheap shot at Trump? If it’s true that the president has been asked to stay away from Pittsburgh, the so called “Jewish leaders” should be ashamed of themselves.
They are certainly not my leaders.
Anonymous, October 29, 2018 2:54 PM
Only the wicked will politicize this!
Trump is not an enemy of Jews, he has never been one and never will be one. He has a unique style but wants a strong America and a better life for Americans.
Alan S., October 31, 2018 10:00 PM
Your feelins are more important than leaders in Pittsburgh??
Not to quibble, but I give Trump credit for going to pay his respects. He even, to his credit, did not make this about him, and for him, he stayed under the radar. He is a human with feelings.
No one with a brain will use this horror to take a cheap shot at Trump and Trump did not cause this directly, and he has denounced anti-Semitism.
Any 'shots' at Trump involve his overheated rhetoric that deranged white nationalists, and I use this term loosely, hear much like a dog whistle, enabling them to see what is not there. If you are fair, you'll acknowledge this.
No one is asking you to be 'led' by these leaders. The mourners of Pittsburgh are asking these leaders to advise Trump to remain away. The governor of the state acquiesced
to their requests.
May you never experience the heartache these mourners did. Only then can you choose who can speak for you.
Anonymous, October 31, 2018 10:45 PM
Well-said
I'm grateful G-d allowed you to express my sentiments in writing. Might I add that words go to G-d. We talk to Him to get us out of exile, including in the land of Israel as it is (a place where terror and extreme hatred of Jews is funded by taxes in Arab schools en masse etc) before Moshiach, NOT a place to "run to." We visit and learn there and some live there... We love the land of Israel that G-d gave to the Jews. (See Rashi on Genesis 1:1). We will be there with Moshiach, NOT from fear, but with what we Jews thrive on: acts of goodness and kindness. Does anyone know the names to pray for of those injured but who survived the attack? And let's honor the memories of those we lost in Pittsburgh, and the Jews killed in the attack in the synagogue in Har Noff in Israel, whose yahrtzheit is this Shabbbos. Let's ask G-d to open our eyes to love Jews and Judaism, as well as the many righteous gentiles, and certainly not let secular politics in any country interfere.
anonymous, November 1, 2018 1:04 AM
80,000 signers to the leaders letter
An article I read stated 80,000 signers added their names to the Jewish Leaders letter asking President Trump to stay away.
Out of respect for that community and the families who lost loved ones, I wish he had honored their request. Maybe waited until all had been laid to rest, to go.
His incitement led to this, in my opinion, hands down.
His base is a lot Christian Zionists and I disagree with a lot of the policies of the government of the modern State of Israel. He has served Netanyahu, well.
His white nationalism and incitement will not bode well for American Jews.
I am heartbroken and devastated over the killing of innocent Jewish life, at Prayer.
(15) Aec Becker, October 29, 2018 12:29 AM
We must realize that we are the chosen scapegoats. We can't walk quietly to the gas chambers. We must teach out children to be strong and ready to fight. Like they did in the Warsaw Ghetto. We must act now to train out children to use weapons in order to defend themselves. Prayers won't do. We have to get in the faces of all anti antisemitism. In schools colleges and universities. We must wear our symbols of Judaism proudly and stop cowering in fright. That is what the anti semites want is for the Jews to be afraid and cower. Take up martial arts and the use of weapons as you might need them. I hope not but at least be ready and organized in solidarity.
Natan, October 29, 2018 7:28 AM
The bravest move is to make your stand in Israel
We train to fight here in Israel.
True Jewish bravery is to move to Israel and fight for your land here.
I am not belittling the Warsaw ghetto uprising - just asserting that it was too little, too late.
From a military/tactical perspective, the biggest mistake the Jews of Europe made was to wait until it was too late to get out and conquer Israel. When G-d miraculously made our subsequent conquest successful, it would have been immeasurably more preferable/glorious (to Him and to us) if European Jewry had been part of it instead of murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators.
(14) GINETTE Z COHEN, October 28, 2018 10:06 PM
Thank you for this vivid comment of our Jewish story.
Anti-Semitism is latent everywhere. Sometimes hidden, something exploding. We depend on the government's orientation. Most of the time, the Democrats kept silent with big calming rhetoric. They tolerate anti-Semitists and even were friends with them. (Obama with Farrakhan; Hillary with Muslim Brotherhood, cooperation with United Nations against Israel) Sometimes only one phrase on the Jews ignites this fury of hatred and mass killing.
Trump proved his love and affiliation to the Jewish's soul. The hater anti-Trump acted with rage and determination to destroy all of the Jews. Vote Republican!
Vote Trump. He is fighting for us, for his grandkids for UNITY.
(13) Judyee, October 28, 2018 8:44 PM
What can we do
And how to we do its
(12) Anonymous, October 28, 2018 8:06 PM
Protect Yourselves
It is time that Jews stop being anti-gun. We have to take steps to protect ourselves. This man passed background checks and purchased his weapons legally. It is time for us to do the same. Take classes both to learn to shoot and where and when you can legally defend yourself. I carry everywhere I legally can, to protect myself and others, while at the same time praying I never have to use it. As the saying goes, “when seconds count, the police are only minutes away”. Get trained, get a gun, carry it.
(11) Anonymous, October 28, 2018 6:26 PM
We always have police guarding our synagogue
in my Midwest city we always have armed guards when we have events of any kinds...There should be also metal detector to screen out strangers with weapons...
(10) Leon, October 28, 2018 5:46 PM
Next slaughter of Jews: when not if
Jews in the US will be attacked again. To prevent slaughter, we have to carry a weapon.
(9) Anonymous, October 28, 2018 5:36 PM
When does the wake up call ring loud enough?
First, BDE to those that were murdered. To their families there are no words. Antisemitism exsists because we as Jews can't exsist without it because we are judgemental of one another, everyone thinks their madrega is better than the "Shimon's" next door. When we fight, hashem hides his shechena nothing new. Hitler, the PA in Gaza, the rest of the despots around the world, don't care about Peyos, Denominations, Sheitel covers, or Teichels......the enemy of my enemy is NOT my friend.
(8) Anonymous, October 28, 2018 5:12 PM
WE knowlhow it feels
It's four years since the Har Npf synagogue killing!
(7) Natan, October 28, 2018 5:09 PM
Peace, I'm on your side
The modern usage of the word "Zionism" has nothing to do with what I'm advocating - leaving Galut and moving to Israel. There have been Jews in Israel way before "Zionism" ever existed. There are tons of Jews in Israel now that are anti-Zionism. There are tons of Jews that would fit what most would call "leftist" in Israel. I'd love to see all the Jews in Israel, regardless of their observance level or political bent. I thought that was very obvious from everything I've said here in this comments section. I believe everything I said was a show of concern for my brothers and sisters in danger. I hope that is clear now. Maybe there are others that are vitriolic in other posts, but I don't see what that has to do with the conversation started here by me. I've not done any name-calling, nor have I supported any particular political bent.
anonymous, October 28, 2018 5:19 PM
I agree
My apologies. Thank you for your genuine concern. This is a difficult time, it has shaken us all, deeply.
Natan, October 28, 2018 5:37 PM
You Sir/Madam are a person of true virtue
A person who publicly apologizes demonstrates great strength.
I stand humbled before you.
May we merit redemption with mutual respect.
(6) Chaim, October 28, 2018 4:30 PM
One thing missing
The only "waking up" available is called Teshuva and moving to Israel.
There's been enough dead canaries around the world to make it evident no other nation will truly accept us.
(5) Anonymous, October 28, 2018 4:20 PM
Do not want this posted as only message to you. I will be patient a bit but if my previous comment does not get posted then bye bye aish for me! If not posted then you are the very thing i was talking about that hurts jews. My excellent article a few years ago is censored all over israel about israel in 70 years has aborted or murdered 2.5 million jewish babies that would today with offspring have been an extra 6 million jews in israel or 12.5 million jews today!!! Is this not central to our well being? Hashem always gives us what we need but if we waste or destroy what hashem gives we pay a heavy price. Please do not be politically correct lefty afraid to upset feelings. There is no hate only love of jews in my words and purpose. I examine history not as what happened but how or why it happened
(4) Anonymous, October 28, 2018 4:05 PM
The problem exists. But when the jews stop acting like leftys and pack or have guns at shul then the horror can be stopped or limited in scope. In hitlers first ekection 80% of jews voted for him but only 37% all germans voted for him. Why? Hitler wanted to take the guns. Jewish logic was 1/2 million jews with few guns but 60 million goyem with many guns so take their guns. We know now that 20 million german evangelicals had they had guns would have tried to save jews enmasse. Today israel wont crush hamas and when the first crude hamas nuke hits us thank our spineless leaders always worried what the goyem will say or do. They hate us always either way. The jews worst enemy has always been non jews of jewish lineage. Hashem help us.
Rachel, November 4, 2018 4:17 AM
Communism was Also a threat in 1933
Many decent people discounted Hitlers racism and antiSemitism in 1933. He wa perceived as being a common soldier, rough around the edges, who would work with President Hindenburg to restore German reputation and economy in aftermath of war, while defending against Soviet and home grown communism. It was not about guns
(3) Magda Selmeci, October 28, 2018 3:51 PM
History repeats itself.
I came to Canada from Budapest Hungary. I am a holocaust survivor. What is happening now bears a strong resembles to the pre holocaust days in Hungary.We had very rich relatives in England. They called us and asked us to leave Hungary, go to England before it will be too late. My father's reaction was:"Thanks. But please do not worry. German people have the highest cultural level on the world. They could never do brutality." Couldn't they? Both my mom and dad lost their family. So let us wake up! Now!
Anonymous, October 28, 2018 4:53 PM
Trump came out against the shooter
So did everyone else in the country.
It is horrifying and deeply upsetting.
What we need to do now, is call out hate, everywhere we see it.
This guy was a white supremacist, from the extreme right. A racist hater.
There has been an increase in anti-Semitism because
these people feel emboldened.
The hate speech has to stop, beginning at the top.
Anonymous, October 28, 2018 7:16 PM
Not extreme Right. ...
The guy is a Nazi. Nazism is the Leftist Collectivist ideology, it has nothing to do with Conservativism. Nazism is a extreme form of Leftist ideology with extreme emphasis on group identity.
Dovid, October 28, 2018 8:28 PM
You are so wrong
Nazi's were most definitely extreme right as they are today. Just because the word socialist was used by the nazi's doesn't change reality. Do some actual research instead of spreading hateful lies at this time of grief. No surprise that you are afraid to display your name.
Alan S., October 28, 2018 11:32 PM
Excellent comments from "Trump came out agains the shooter".
I agree with every word you wrote. I may not agree with every word that Trump says, nor approve of him as President, but as I've written elsewhere, he absolutely does do good things for America and Israel.
Anonymous, October 31, 2018 1:14 PM
Hundreds if not Thousands protested
I wish he had not gone to Pittsburgh out of respect for the families and the community that asked him not to go.
My heart aches over all of this.
President Trump has been great for Israel, but he is creating an America I do not recognize.
Words impact and his aggression, division, incitement is tearing us apart.
I ache for all of us.
(2) Anonymous, October 28, 2018 3:45 PM
Baruch Dayan HaEmet. May their memories be for a blessing. May we fight the hate and lies together. Am Yisrael Jai!
(1) Natan, October 28, 2018 9:10 AM
Time to get out
To my revered Jewish brethren in USA and all the Diaspora:
It's been time to get out and come to Israel for several decades.
I and many others like me have (single, with families, rich, poor, etc.)
Yes, you WILL need to sacrifice.
Yes, it WILL be difficult.
Don't make the same mistake that we've repeated over history and wait for the slaughter to come to you.
When we show Hashem we're serious about redemption, he will redeem us.
We've been paying lip service to how important it is to live in Israel for millennia - time to put our money where our mouths are.
Survive the next holocaust.
Anonymous, October 28, 2018 9:29 AM
Take a Stand in.the.Diaspora
Demand your leaders stop fanning the flames of hate, demand values of respect and tolerance in words and action, Demand the name calling, spewing about of unkind and demeaning words about the "left,", about "others," stop.
Put Torah first, and Pray for Moshiach.
Natan, October 28, 2018 10:50 AM
Second temple would never have been rebuilt with your approach
Using your approach, all the Jews should have remained in Bavel and took a stand there.
Clearly, Ezra and the Men of the Great Assembly (some among them being prophets) disagreed. And yes, many of the Jews in his generation did not follow his lead.
Your demands will be ignored. Pleas will be ignored. Slaughter has arrived.
Don't worry about what they think, we don't owe them any explanation about ANYTHING.
We are the catalyst for the Geulah - it will not happen "magically" (see Rambam, Hilchot Melachim). Mashiach will come when we show Hashem we believe he can do it.
Actions speak a lot louder than words. Talk is cheap. Show G-d through action that you believe he can make Jews in Israel, with the Bet Hamikdash and Sanhedrin a viable option - as Ezra and his generation did.
Nancy, October 28, 2018 12:53 PM
Whether we make Aliyah or remain in the Diaspora
One fact is indisputable. We Jews must stand together. We have got to STOP the name calling, labeling and finger pointing at "the other." Yesterday's perpetrators had no interest in how observant one was or wasn't. I grew up in a very Secular Jewish home and am just now realizing how much fear of anti Semitism my parents had. I won't give into that fear at all. Like the high school student in the article, I am not the same Jewish person today that I was yesterday.
Natan, October 28, 2018 1:35 PM
Clearly true, but not enough
I don't think anyone advocating Aliyah disputes that point, including myself. And no one here has done any name-calling, so I'm not sure why that was brought up in this context.
I am merely putting forth my honest opinion that we won't get redemption if we don't do the actions needed to make it happen - and I believe that one of those is Jews returning to Israel.
As far as "Put Torah first" from Anonymous: Is not the Torah, Prophets, Talmud, etc, absolutely chock full of the enhancement to Torah by living in Israel? Arguably, more so than all the other mitzvot combined.
As a people, we have buried what Ezra and the other greats clearly believed was an absolutely essential element of Torah.
Whether or not Israel is exactly what we would wish it to be in no way lessens the importance of living there, even without persecution in Galut.
anonymous, October 28, 2018 2:53 PM
I will remain
You mentioned Hilchot Melachim, Chap 11 verse 1, Moshiach will gather the dispersed of Israel. To me, it is clear, we are to wait for Moshiach. I will guess you will cite 5:12, a person should live in Israel, but it also says we are permitted to live anywhere but Egypt.
We have lost 11 Jewish Souls in the worst anti-Semitic crime in the U.S. -to me, the answer is to stand up to the hate, to teach and live tolerance.
I am a U.S. citizen, Judaism is my Faith, I will remain a Jew right here.
Natan, October 28, 2018 3:20 PM
May G-d protect you
Yes, the Rambam is referring to those that remain in Galut after Mashiach comes (my hope is that many survive). As you pointed out, he himself says that is not the ideal and that we should live there before Mashiach comes. And it is crystal clear from many sources that a major component of hastening the redemption is strictly a numbers issue (when more than half of Jews live in Israel). We'd prefer not to need Mashiach to "force" the issue.
I sincerely hope you will be one of those who merit that in-gathering. And I desperately hope I'm wrong about this event being just the introduction of what's to come. History certainly seems to indicate otherwise.
But, your final line, "I am a U.S. citizen, Judaism is my Faith, I will remain a Jew right here." is, in a certain sense, scarily reminiscent of the call of “Berlin is our Jerusalem!”. We all know what happened shortly thereafter.
anonymous, October 28, 2018 3:38 PM
Zionism is not Judaism
All through Torah, too many verses to count, we are to wait for Moshiach.
The Temples were destroyed because we were vulnerable due to all the in-fighting among us.
The Shechina fled.
My Prayer is that we unite as the One people, we are.
Regardless of denomination, political affiliation, stance on the Israel - Palestinian conflict.
We are a community divided.
By the way, Nancy, I believe, was referring to the vitriol and hostility commonly seen here toward the "left" or anyone who disagrees with you.
Perhaps, in honor of those lost, we can tone down the rhetoric, and embrace one another as Jews.
We are all part of the collective Soul of Judaism, and our words have hurt one another. It is time to stop the hate.
Nancy, October 29, 2018 11:49 AM
To commenter Natan
I brought up the issue of name calling because there have been Jewish people who criticize other Jews for not being "enough." She isn't kosher enough. I don't like his kippa. You get the idea.
MESA, October 29, 2018 1:51 PM
Now I get to praise your comment. We do have to stand together. We need to reach out to our fellow Jews with love, respect, and dignity and not with judgments. Reasonable people can disagree while still caring.
Anonymous, October 29, 2018 1:53 PM
I wish it were that simple. There are so many of us in the Diaspora who do want to make Aliyah but whose circumstances just don't allow it. That includes me and my family. Please daven that Hashem should help us all to get there.