Contributing Columnist Jay Michaelson October 2, 2024
Rosh Hashanah is a holiday that often evokes mixed emotions—joy, solemnity, celebration, and repentance. However, this year feels particularly perplexing.
As Jews prepare to attend synagogue tonight, the threat of Iranian missiles targeting Israel looms large, or perhaps vice versa. The upcoming anniversary of October 7 is on Monday, and the plight of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas remains at the forefront of our minds. While opinions differ on the Gaza War and the Israeli government’s priorities, many of us find ourselves disoriented, anxious, and ambivalent.
A friend recently sent me a Rosh Hashanah message, intended to express hope for “a sweet new year filled with good adventures,” but it humorously autocorrected to “a sweet new tearful.” This sums up the sentiment perfectly.
For American Jews, the painful and polarizing impact of the Gaza conflict is now compounded by a further escalation of hostilities. Our positions may vary—support, opposition, or a complex mix of both—but the anguish of the situation is undeniable: countless lives lost, many displaced Palestinians, numerous Israeli casualties, and 97 hostages still held. For many liberal and centrist Jews, the nearly year-long conflict has made it clear that the Netanyahu government needs to negotiate a ceasefire and bring the hostages home.
The current situation differs from that in Gaza. Israel’s response to Hezbollah has been more precise. Although innocent lives have been lost, which is always tragic, the magnitude of the suffering in Gaza cannot be overstated.
Hezbollah, often mischaracterized, is largely viewed as a militant group that oppresses those in Lebanon. Their actions do not represent the Palestinian struggle but are instead aligned with Iran’s pursuit of influence. While I lack the strategic insight needed to determine if targeting Hezbollah’s leader would enhance Israeli security, I harbor no sympathy for him.
Interestingly, many progressives found the recent targeting of Hezbollah communications impressive. While innocents suffered, the operation was one of the most focused counter-terrorism efforts seen in recent times. If this action is not justifiable, then what is?
However, trust in the Netanyahu government remains elusive. He has, for now, thwarted calls for a Southern Lebanon invasion, but this situation is fluid. Netanyahu’s history as a self-serving politician raises concerns about his true intentions regarding the Gaza War and hostage situations.
The Iranian military response, while anticipated given Israel’s strikes on Hezbollah, appears to focus on military targets rather than civilians. As someone with friends and family in Israel, the updates from those huddling in shelters are heartbreaking. Although this phase has so far led to less trauma compared to Gaza, it generates considerable anxiety about what might happen next. Will Netanyahu choose to escalate further? Will Iran respond with increased aggression?
We are left grappling with a mix of emotions—heartbreak, anxiety, support for Israel tempered by skepticism of its leadership, concern for innocent lives on all sides, and the ever-present plight of those in Gaza. Coupled with the traditional calls for introspection during this season, we are also urged to enjoy festive meals and moments with loved ones.
Amidst this, we cannot forget the broader context—ongoing tensions related to the American election, intensifying climate crises, rising antisemitism, and the routine challenges of modern life.
The meditation teacher in me acknowledges the weight of all these complexities.
Yet, I recognize that my personal struggles are minor compared to what those in conflict zones are enduring. Self-compassion should not be a comparison of suffering; while others face harsher realities, our own challenges are valid.
What nourishes my resilience involves embracing both linear and cyclical notions of time, reflecting on the passage of seasons, and reconnecting with sources of love and solace. Ecclesiastes reminds us that “the wind spins around and returns”—an expression of the cyclical nature of existence.
Whether this sense of continuity stems from God, love, or simply the human experience is beyond my expertise. However, I believe it is possible to find peace amid turmoil, experiencing both the chaotic essence of Rosh Hashanah 5785 and a deeper tranquility that transcends it.
Beyond that, the future remains uncertain. Shana Tova.