Voices of Wisdom: Reflections From Local Rabbis

Haifa, Israel (Photo: benedek/iStock)

In this pivotal moment for our Jewish community, local rabbis offer wisdom, reflection, and hope on the situation in Israel.

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Refusing to Despair
In the face of unimaginable loss, Israel chooses love over hate, resilience over despair, honoring the memory of those taken from us.

By Rabbi Danny Burkeman

For Temple Shir Tikva (Wayland)

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Standing With Israel
We’re sharing stories of impact, lifting the voices of survivors and their loved ones, and connecting our community to events and resources to help process our collective grief and healing after 10/7.

By JewishBoston

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The Responsibility of Kindness in Life and Death
As Israel mourns, this week’s Torah portion calls us to uphold kindness and care for the vulnerable amid tragedy.

By Rabbi Elaine Zecher

For Temple Israel of Boston

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Holding the Beauty and the Horror
Amid beauty and grief, we hold both loss and hope, seeking a better world.

By Rav Claudia Kreiman

For Temple Beth Zion

(Photo: tifonimages/iStock)
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You Cannot Build a True Future From a False Past
This Purim and Passover season, let’s reclaim our stories with truth, accountability, and the responsibility they demand.

By Rabbi William Hamilton

For Congregation Kehillath Israel

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There Are No Words — What We Need Is Action
When words fail, action must prevail—now is the time to strengthen, support, and stand together.

By Rabbi Mendy Uminer

For Chabad Center at Chestnut Hill

(Photo: Mukhina1/iStock)
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(Not) Feeling Joy THIS Adar
As Adar begins, joy feels distant—but the story of Purim teaches us that even in darkness, sorrow can transform into celebration.

By Rabbi Noah Cheses

For Young Israel of Sharon

(Photo: Polina Shirokova/Unsplash)
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Finding Light in the Darkness
In a time of immense sorrow, Adar challenges us to seek joy, turn darkness into light, and embrace the strength to keep moving forward.

By Rabbi Benjamin Samuels

For Congregation Shaarei Tefillah

Standing With Israel: Community Impact stories
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In a Moment of Urgency, CJP Mobilizes Rapid Emergency Support Across Israel
CJP is rapidly deploying emergency aid across Israel to support safety, care, and resilience amid ongoing conflict.

By Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP)

Rose flower growing from crack in the rod, new growth in the middle of crisis, new life new hope
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CJP Addresses Israel’s Surge in Mental Health Needs 
Grants support digital platforms, PTSD intervention and suicide prevention. 

By Kara Baskin

For Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP)

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The Power of One Community: Somerville Comes Together for Israel
In a city divided over politics, hundreds came together to fight hunger in Israel—raising $250,000 to feed thousands and send a message of unity.

By Gilad Skolnick

For Leket Israel

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Kibbutz Kissufim’s Return: Rebuilding Community From the Dairy Up
A new dairy farm marks more than economic revival—it’s a milestone in Kissufim’s long journey home.

By Kara Baskin

For Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP)

Omer Shem Tov Photo Credit: Yonit Schiller
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Boston Welcomes Omer and the Family Who Never Gave Up
After 505 days in captivity, Omer Shem Tov’s long-awaited release brought a moment of healing and hope — not just for his family, but for our entire community.

By Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP)

Kobi Gideon Kibbutz Be'eri
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From the Rubble of War to a New Beginning
Powered by Boston’s entrepreneurial spirit.

By Avnet Kleiner, Oshrat Gafni-Moyal & Hilla Perlman-Pniel

For CJP’s Boston-Haifa Connection

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CJP’s Reach in Israel Continues to Grow
A partnership with Project Horizon offers key support to 54 communities.

By Kara Baskin

For Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP)

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Ready to Respond: OneDay’s Life-Saving Volunteer Initiative
When disaster strikes, these volunteers are ready to save lives—before help arrives.

By Hannah Laura Taylor

For CJP’s Boston-Haifa Connection

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Bringing a Lifetime of Skills to a Year of Service
A CJP-supported pilot program for those 50-plus includes a year of service in the Gaza Envelope.

By Dan Seligson

For Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP)

Gilad harvesting fruit for Leket Israel
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Leket Israel’s Food Innovation, With Boston’s Support
After Oct. 7, Israel’s farms were devastated. See how Leket Israel is leading a groundbreaking effort to rescue food and feed those in need.

By Gilad Skolnick

For Leket Israel

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