European Jews gather for Shabbat of unity in Belgium

• Published date: 02 April 2024
• Author: SIVAN RAHAV MEIR
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

So why should we study Leviticus with the same passion we have for the other books? Because if you stay focused and engaged even when things are not so exciting or easy to comprehend, it demonstrates your sense of obligation to a higher value or purpose. In Leviticus, the Torah discusses matters that are not readily understandable. However, when you are fully invested in the story, you're not just looking for entertainment, but for a chance to show your commitment and love. If something is precious and holy, you don't leave it in the middle when a challenge arises. Instead, the difficulty becomes an opportunity to dive deeper and investigate matters that are less glittery and popular but hold a special sweetness as you learn more about them

This principle is relevant not only to Torah study but to everything important: marriage, children's education, and the workplace. If I'm still here, no matter what, it's a sign that I care, that I am immersed in the unfolding story, and that every chapter arouses my love.

Shabbat in Belgium: Beseeching God's mercies

Regards from Belgium. An unforgettable moment unfolded before me on Shabbat evening during an event named "Go Jewish." Hundreds of Jews across Europe came together and participated in a Shabbat of Unity. Following the Friday night dinner, performer Avi Miller, who had just arrived from Israel after a long stint of reserve duty on the Gaza periphery, began to sing Shabbat songs, drawing a large audience.

Earlier, during a discussion I led with students at the event, we'd explored what they perceived as their foremost challenges. The conclusion: antisemitism and assimilation, although most couldn't decide which was worse. During the joyful moments on Shabbat, however, such concerns faded away, overshadowed by a vibrant celebration of Jewish identity. The students danced in circles, jumping exuberantly while singing "Am Israel Chai," "Oseh Shalom Bimromav," and "Anachnu Ma'aminim Bnei Ma'aminim."

Avi took a line from the poignant Shabbat song, Ka Echsof, "V'hayu rachamecha…, May Your mercies spread over your holy people," singing it slowly over and over. Joining a circle of young women from Amsterdam, I was struck by the sight of tears in the eyes of the women on both sides of me.

"What is he singing?" one asked. As I explained the lyrics' meaning, it occurred to me: these young women may not have understood the song's meaning, but their souls most certainly did.

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