The fourth and fifth of the Jewish month of Iyar, Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut, which stand side by side, present the Israeli reality in which history and hope meet at a single point. At first glance, it may seem like a jarring contrast: how can one move from the silence of a memorial siren, from cemeteries and the memory of the fallen, to fireworks, flags, and celebration?Yet it is precisely this closeness that expresses a profound truth at the heart of both the Jewish tradition and the Zionist story.
Jewish culture has long understood the tension between grief and joy. Throughout history, moments of mourning have been woven into our most joyous occasions. The memorial prayer Yizkor is recited during major holidays, and at the wedding celebration a glass is broken to remember the destruction of Jerusalem.
This understanding is that Israel is not only an ancient dream it was also achieved through profound sacrifice. This idea was captured powerfully by the poet Natan Alterman in his poem “The Silver Platter”:
Then the nation inquired, drenched in tears and enchantment
Of the two, “Who are you?” as they stood, not unnerved.
Their reply: “We are they, the acclaimed silver platter
Upon whom the new State of the Jews has been served.”
These days reflect the reality that Israel itself weaves together grief and joy, pain and hope, bowed heads alongside proud hearts. They remind us that independence is never taken for granted. It is the result of human sacrifice and an ongoing responsibility to preserve what has been built.
Even today, in the complex reality that has continued for more than two years in the world and especially in Israel, we are once again reminded of the need for a Jewish state and of the delicate balance that exists within this contrast: Israelis will enter shelters singing, lift their spirits through dance, and offer prayers for a better future even within a painful reality. When the national days arrive, they will bow their heads in the morning during the Memorial Day ceremony, and by evening dance with proud hearts in the celebrations of Independence Day.
The well-known phrase “In their death they commanded us to live” expresses the message at the heart of this transition. Independence is not only a celebration of sovereignty; it is also a moral commitment to remember those whose sacrifice made sovereignty possible. As the Talmud teaches us, “Jacob our father did not die; just as his descendants live, so does he live,” (Ta’anit 5b). Though individuals may pass, their legacy continues through the life they helped create.
Community Commemoration and Celebration
Our community will come together to mark these meaningful days.
On Monday, April 20 at 6:00 PM, we will gather at the Gordon Jewish Community Center for a Yom HaZikaron ceremony. Together we will honor the fallen soldiers of Israel and victims of terror, including those connected to members of our own community.
Then, on Sunday, April 26 from 12:00–3:00 PM, we will celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut, marking 78 years of the State of Israel. The celebration will include a local artists’ market, a children’s activity market, family programming, Israeli food, lively music, and traditional Israeli folk dancing. As in Israel, the event will also feature a torch-lighting ceremony honoring twelve individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the Jewish community.
If you are local artists, or if your children would like to open a booth to sell their creations, you are invited to visit the Federation’s website to register for a booth or for the events themselves.
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