In the shadow of Hamas’ attack on Israel on Oct. 7, Jewish communities nationwide have seen a remarkable surge in solidarity, rallying together to advocate for the release of the hostages.

After a temporary truce that resulted in the release of less than half of the hostages, the Jewish community continued to advocate for the release of the rest of the 130 hostages.

Several synagogues in Boston and two in Southern California have shown proliferating support for Israel through prayer, rallying, and donating money, supplies, and equipment for soldiers. This conflict has profoundly connected Jews in the face of surging antisemitism, which has risen by 400% since Oct. 7.

Despite community support and unity, this increase in antisemitism has caused uneasiness among synagogues and congregants.

“There is increased security at virtually every synagogue; in the last few years, there has been increased security, and even that has been ramped up,” said Rabbi Michael Lotker of Southern California’s Temple Adat Elohim. Lotker teaches classes on antisemitism.

Lotker described how synagogues have upgraded their security measures, now using, “interlocking systems, closed circuit TV and private guards.”

While these safety precautions protect Jews in their synagogues, the protection doesn’t extend to their workplaces or neighborhoods.

“I’ve seen an increase in anxiety about local antisemitism and people feeling vulnerable and exposed as Jews in the streets,” Rabbi Michael Shire of the Central Reform Temple of Boston explained. “They are looking for a sanctuary for that feeling and come to services to find that.”

While the impact of antisemitism has caused widespread concern, it has also brought Jewish people closer to their faith and one another.

“I think the events of Oct. 7 made Jewish people more conscious of their Judaism and [their] connection to Israel,” said Lotker.

This newfound collective consciousness has created a special bond and closeness among congregation members.

As people explored their connection to Israel, they also reexamined their Jewish identities. A longing for a community to share this connection with has brought people together, and temple attendance is “through the roof,” said Rabbi Lipaz, senior rabbi at Valley Outreach Synagogue in Calabasas, CA. “People want to be a part of the Jewish story right now,” he said.

As antisemitism rises, Jewish leaders emphasize the urgent need to further this connection and unity.

“We need to stick together and show the world a united front,” said Grand Rabbi Y.A. Korff, who holds the title of Grand Rebbe of Zvhil-Mezhbizh and serves as the spiritual leader of Zvhil-Mezhbizh in Boston and Jerusalem. Since 1975, he has been the chaplain of the City of Boston, and serves as one of the spiritual leaders at The Jerusalem Great Synagogue in Jerusalem.

“It was an existential threat, and it became very clear that Israel was fighting for its existence, and with an environment like that it became apparent that unity was necessary,” said Korff.

The Jerusalem Great Synagogue raised funds to purchase equipment for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and supplies for 250,000 displaced families. These families evacuated danger zones in northern and southern Israel and headed toward Jerusalem, fleeing with few, if any, belongings.

“The families needed food, laundry done, toys for their children, diapers, baby food and toiletries,” said Korff.

Among the monetary efforts fostered through synagogues, religious leaders have also implemented additional prayers for the congregation to do together. Judaism teaches that when one prays with others, there is an added strength to the prayer.

These moments of prayer embody the spirit of Judaism, which lies in the power of hope and faith.

“Jews are an optimistic people, we are eternally optimistic, we believe that in every curse there is a blessing,” said Korff.

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