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I Stand with Israel

“We are at war” – Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu

This is an illustration of flag of Israel

I woke up to the news in Israel and am devastated at the surprise sneak attack by Hamas, the injuries and loss of life everywhere, and the pure hatred that is at the root of it all.

Because I have no words right now, I continue to pray for all of our families and friends who live in the Holy Land and offer up the wise words of Rabbi David Wolpe.

El Maleh Rachamim

Compassionate God,

We pray

not to wipe out haters

but to banish hatred.

Not to destroy sinners

but to lessen sin.

Our prayers are not for a perfect world

but a better one

Where parents are not bereaved

by the savagery of sudden attacks

Or children orphaned

by blades glinting in a noonday sun.

Help us dear God,

to have the courage to remain strong,

to stand fast.

Spread Your light

on the dark hearts of the slayers

And Your comfort

to the bereaved hearts of families of the slain.

Let calm return Your city Jerusalem,

and to Israel, Your blessed land.

We grieve with those wounded

in body and spirit,

pray for the fortitude of our sisters and brothers,

and ask You to awaken the world to our struggle and help us bring peace.

Rabbi David Wolpe

12 comments on I Stand with Israel

  1. Tamara
    October 8, 2023 at 4:06 am (7 months ago)

    Since my brother and his family live in Israel, you can imagine I was shocked and appalled as well. Sadly I feel this area will always be full of conflict and disruption.

    • Elisa
      October 8, 2023 at 1:14 pm (7 months ago)

      Oh wow. I hope they are okay and stay safe and strong.

  2. Kebba Buckley Button
    October 7, 2023 at 5:02 pm (7 months ago)

    Elisa, I was also shocked by the news of the attack on Israel and understood Israel’s declaration that “we are at war”. (Look out, enemies of Israel. Remember the raid at Entebbe?) I posted about it on my FB timeline, and there has been almost no response. But this is important! Thank you for Rabbi Wolpe’s words. May we move towards shalom in our hearts.

    • Elisa
      October 8, 2023 at 1:15 pm (7 months ago)

      Thanks, Kebba.

  3. Martha
    October 7, 2023 at 4:39 pm (7 months ago)

    What a beautiful prayer and I too was so shocked to see what was happening. First Ukraine, now Isreal, who knows where the next war will be. I pray for Isreal with you.

    • Elisa
      October 8, 2023 at 1:15 pm (7 months ago)

      Thank you Martha. Much appreciated.

  4. Alice Gerard
    October 7, 2023 at 1:58 pm (7 months ago)

    Beautiful poem. I pray for a diplomatic solution to end the hostility and for truth and reconciliation commissions to work through the divisiveness.

    • Elisa
      October 8, 2023 at 1:16 pm (7 months ago)

      Thanks, Alice. I pray for the same, but I fear it won’t be anytime soon.

  5. Victoria+Juster
    October 7, 2023 at 11:50 am (7 months ago)

    Beautiful words, Elisa. Thank you.

    • Elisa
      October 8, 2023 at 1:16 pm (7 months ago)

      Thanks, Victoria

  6. Bob Krantweiss
    October 7, 2023 at 11:19 am (7 months ago)

    Well chosen comment from the rabbi to enhance your blog. I shared it!

    • Elisa
      October 8, 2023 at 1:16 pm (7 months ago)

      Thanks, Dad. 🙂