Rabbi’s Shabbat Message

Our Deed of Ownership

I was recently asked a seemingly simple question: “Rabbi, why does Israel occupy such a profound, impassioned place in the hearts and minds of Jews everywhere? Even those who’ve never been there, have no family there, and may know little about its politics still feel an unbreakable bond. What’s with this deep connection?”

So, as a good Jew would do, I answered the question with a question: “Tell me, why is the entire world so obsessed with what goes on in this tiny sliver of land, importing its geopolitical problems onto their own local streets?”  

Case in point: last weeks’ “Jew hunt” in Amsterdam. This was not merely “violence tied to a soccer game” as reported by the international press. Almost 90 years after Kristallnacht, in the very city where Anne Frank was forced into hiding, the world looked on whilst a pogrom took place, leaving Jews running, fearing for their lives, instructed to hide once again.  

This time however, we are not relying on the Dutch government for our protection. This time we have the Land of Israel and its mighty army. 

In the Torah portions we’re reading these weeks, we meet Abraham and Sarah, our first Jewish ancestors. Their spiritual journey from pagan beliefs to discovering G-d as the Creator of the world set in motion the creation of the Jewish nation as we know it today.  

We read about the foundation of the “Chosen Nation”—a people entrusted with the awe-inspiring task of being G-d’s ambassadors to the world and G-d’s promise that this land would become an “eternal inheritance for their descendants.”   

So, returning to the question of our bond with Israel: my answer is rooted in our Deed of Ownership—the Torah itself. Israel is not merely a political or historical attachment; it is the core of Jewish identity. Regardless of whether we live within Israel’s borders, we are bound to it, and whatever happens there deeply matters to each of us, wherever we may be.

The Rebbe emphasized the importance of sharing this truth with the world. In 1969, he wrote to Israeli President Zalman Shazar, saying, “Israel’s representatives in international forums often claim Israel began in 1948 with British territories and UN ‘permission’ to exist. My answer is simple: not true. Israel is not a new entity. Jews have returned to our homeland—an inheritance that has never ceased, even through forced exile. 

I do not delude myself in thinking the UN will suddenly see justice, but morale among our youth, soldiers, and students is crucial. Let Israel’s representatives proclaim with conviction that those in Zion live in the Land of Israel, not a mere geographic area. Let them bang on the table when they declare this truth.” 

I encourage you to watch this 18 minute film by Jewish educational media, it explores this fundamental idea based on the Rabbi’s teachings.

Israel’s Deed of Ownership: The Rebbe’s Roadmap to Peace, 

Episode 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmY3-GXJ0Rs

This past year has shown us that we truly have the strength and determination to overcome any threats. As we continue to stand up for Israel and make our voices heard, we no longer shrink back or apologise for our “Jewishness.” Wear your kippah with confidence, display your Magen David proudly, share images of courageous missions by the IDF. 

Let us take pride in our eternal connection to our homeland. By embracing and cherishing this bond, we inspire others to join us, helping to pave the way for an era of true global peace and tranquility for all. 

Tomorrow evening, we are honoured to host Kellie Sloane MP, Member for Vaucluse. A steadfast supporter of our community, she has become a familiar face in our Shule, frequently attending our events in a show of solidarity. Please join us for a L’Chaim at 5:15 p.m. to express our gratitude, followed by Kabbalat Shabbat at 6:00 p.m.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Levi and Chanie