October 7 is a moment in time that has forever changed the lives of Jews both inside and outside of Israel. Hamas terrorists were able to penetrate our walls, deliver a devastating blow to our homeland, and spread blatant anti-Semitism throughout the world. In the aftermath, one question continues to resonate deeply with us: What did we do wrong?
The answer is painfully obvious. In the months preceding Hamas’ attacks, Am Yisrael was filled with anything but unity. From nationwide protests fighting for political stability to rampant religious disputes, our division was unmistakable. The greater Jewish community lacked the interest necessary to keep our state afloat, and our enemies knew it.
Fortunately, the clear cause of our devastation answers the questions of “How can we fix this?” and “How do we move forward?”
The history of Am Yisrael has repeatedly shown the dangers of division, October 7 being just one example. Over the years spent in exile, Jewish leaders of all generations bemoaned the hostility that the Jewish people felt towards one another. To them, the only reason for the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash and our expulsion was that our nation was filled with Sinat Chinam–baseless hatred.
As the only cause of our troubles is our pointless hatred toward each other, the only way to counter the attacks on our existence is through everlasting national unity. Now that we were finally granted our own Jewish state after thousands of years, it is crucial that we maintain this unity to keep our community strong against foreign threats.
The unification of Am Yisrael following the attacks of October 7 was nothing short of extraordinarily beautiful. But this reaction should not be deemed “extra” ordinary; it must become a natural, instinctive one. Jews throughout the world should be able to exhibit steadfast support for each other, regardless of whether or not a war is being waged.
The phrase “Never Again” has been used repeatedly in response to recent tragedies of our people. Yet “Never Again” has happened. Despite the fact that Am Yisrael can unite in times of catastrophe, we have not shown an ability to remain unified. Just as one may attempt Teshuva for a certain sin yet return to doing it, Am Yisrael can express solidarity yet break apart once danger is no longer present. True Teshuva is done when people learn from their mistakes and take the steps to never make them again.
The Jewish people have emphasized the importance of coming together as Am Echad (one nation), showing continued unity in these hard times. Now, as the season for nationwide Teshuva returns for the first time since the horror that was October 7, we have to eternalize our resolution to work together and remain united, thereby performing a complete Teshuva through which we move on as one nation.
We can’t be divided again; with our enemies and the rest of the world watching, we must show might through unwavering unity and solidarity. The Jewish people can prove to everyone that as long as they truly remain an Am Echad, they will stand strong.
October 7 (falling, by no coincidence, on Simchat Torah) was a watershed moment. It was not just another date to be written in history, quickly forgotten with time. It was–and must be–a fundamental turning point in the history of Am Yisrael. It held a strong message, the same one we were given when our Beit HaMikdash was set aflame: As long as we stand divided, terror will reign.
We can’t be divided again; with our enemies and the rest of the world watching, we must show might through unwavering unity and solidarity. The Jewish people can prove to everyone that as long as they truly remain an Am Echad, they will stand strong.
