Tag: October 7

The Dead Child- a prayer from the ashes of October 7

As we remember the horror of October 7 and the aftermath, the words of Menachem Rosensaft bring us a somber resonance. Let this day of remembrance stir us to mercy for the child, not because we doubt our cause, but because we cherish our conscience.

“the dead child

in gaza city

khan younis

rafah

is cried over

with the same tears

by the same God

the same Allah

the same Adonai

as the dead child

in kfar aza

nahal oz

be’eri

…

and it is

for the not yet dead child

palestinian child

israeli child

muslim child

jewish child

that the killing must end

the war must end

the terror must end

the hatred must end”

—Menachem Rosensaft, from Burning Psalms: Confronting Adonai after Auschwitz (Ben Yehuda Press, 2025)

 

 

Disastrous Brinksmanship

Color shot of a vintage draughts or checkers board game.

On the checkboard of foreign policy, we are careening to a terrible end.

Hamas’ delay of the planned hostage release this week, combined with the horrible physical condition of the returned hostages, outraged Trump to set a Saturday deadline for the return of all hostages or else.  Netanyahu, already under internal pressure, has now threatened the resumption of brutal war in Gaza.  This leaves two options for Hamas:  capitulate to the threats or defy them.  Defiance likely would be killing some or all of the hostages.

Although Hamas does not respect human life, sending the message of defiance is the only opportunity to demonstrate resilience and, in the opinions of many, victory.  The hostages and the Palestinians will be readily sacrificed in the name of ideology.

This is a dangerous game, ultimately without winners, only losers. Hopefully, leaders will step forward to pull back from the precipice. This requires courage, a bold vision for moving forward, and the support of countries genuinely interested in peace.