Bondi Jewish Community Reflects on Passover Amidst Recent Tragedy

This year, the Jewish community in Bondi, Australia, is preparing to celebrate Passover, or Pesach, under the shadow of recent tragedy. Rabbi Mendy Ulman reflects on the loss of his brother-in-law, Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who was killed in a massacre at Bondi Beach. This Passover marks the first time many families will gather without their loved ones, making the communal Seder meal particularly poignant. The Seder, traditionally held on the first two nights of Passover, will be moved to the first night this year to foster a sense of togetherness and healing within the community.

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Passover commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, a theme that resonates deeply with the Bondi community this year. Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio emphasizes that Pesach is fundamentally about freedom, stating, “Every human being deserves to be free.” The Seder meal serves as a platform for discussion and reflection, allowing participants to connect their personal experiences with the historical narrative of liberation.

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The Bondi Jewish community, which numbers around 100,000 in Australia, has expressed heightened concerns over safety following the massacre. Lynda Ben-Menashe, president of the National Council of Jewish Women of Australia, notes that the community has felt a sustained sense of dread over potential violence. The question posed at the Seder table this year—“Why is this night different from all other nights?”—takes on a new urgency as community members grapple with their sense of security and freedom in Australia.

The Guardian

In light of recent events, community leaders are calling for a national dialogue on antisemitism and social cohesion. Rabbi Ulman highlights the importance of gratitude during Passover, suggesting that the holiday encourages reflection on both joy and sorrow. He states, “Pesach wants us to be free by saying have some gratitude in life in the good things.” This sentiment is echoed by Rabbi Eliyahu Junik from Chabad in Burlington, who emphasizes the need for joy amidst rising antisemitism.

The Guardian

Despite the focus on resilience, there are dissenting voices within the community. Some members express frustration over the ongoing antisemitism and question the effectiveness of current measures to ensure safety. Ryvchin articulates a sense of defiance in simply being Jewish in public spaces, stating, “Everything seems like an act of defiance at the moment.”

The Guardian

• “He was life.” — Rabbi Mendy Ulman, reflecting on his brother-in-law.

The Guardian

• “Pesach really at its heart is about what it means to be free …” — Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio.

The Guardian

• “We’ve experienced murder on Australian soil and we have never been feeling less safe in this country than we do today.” — Lynda Ben-Menashe.

The Guardian

As the Bondi Jewish community gathers for Passover, the holiday serves as both a remembrance of past struggles and a call to action for a safer future. The communal Seder is seen as a healing experience, with hopes that the themes of liberation and resilience will guide the community through these challenging times.

Tallahasee Democrat