The foreign prophet Balaam, sent to curse Israel, ended up blessing Israel instead: “Behold it is a people that dwells alone, not reckoned among the nations.” (Numbers 23:9)

As the conflict continues in Gaza, Balaam’s words feel eerily prophetic—and more curse than blessing. In the wake of growing international criticism, violent anti-Israel (and often anti-Semitic) demonstrations in Europe, and even a recent suspension of American air travel to the country, Israel feels increasingly isolated and alone.

In times like these, it is vitally important that we demonstrate our continued support for Israel. We each come with different perspectives. But above all, Israel needs to know it is not alone and that American Jews support the existence and defense of a Jewish state.

Please join me and the larger Jewish community for a rally as New York Stands with Israel. The event will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, July 28 at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza (2nd Avenue and 47th Street). This rally is being co-sponsored by the UJA-Federation of New York and the Union for Reform Judaism, among others. We will be gathering in front of the Community House at 11:55 a.m. to walk to the Plaza together as a congregation.

We also invite you to contribute to Stop the Sirens, a relief campaign of the Jewish Federations of North America and co-sponsored by the URJ, which enables our network agencies in Israel to respond to the pressing needs on the ground.

Please let Israel know that it is not a nation that dwells alone. We are all Am Yisrael, a people whose very name means to struggle. I know these past weeks have been very challenging for the entire people of Israel, and I encourage all of you to find ways of supporting Israel that resonate for you. We will be posting selected articles, prayers, and thoughts on our website.

I end with the words of another prophet, Isaiah: “And they will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, and never again will they learn war.” (Isaiah 2:4)

B’Shalom,

Angela W. Buchdahl
Senior Rabbi