Hope, strength, wisdom and compassion

Rabbi Ammos Chorny

As we prepare to usher in the Jewish New Year 5785, the shofar’s call resonates deeply, inviting us to reflect on the past year’s trials and renew our hopes for the future. This Rosh Hashanah, however, arrives with a heavy heart, as we cannot overlook the profound challenges that Israel and the Jewish people have endured.

On Oct. 7, a dark chapter was added to our history; when innocent men, women and children were mercilessly massacred, and many others were taken hostage by Hamas terrorists. The pain and anguish felt by their families continue to haunt us all. Their absence casts a long shadow over our celebrations, reminding us of the fragility of life. We feel their loss as our own, standing united in prayer for their safe and peaceful return. Our tradition holds pikuach nefesh — the saving of a life — as among the highest mitzvot. We will not rest until every captive is brought home!

Simultaneously, the campaign to eradicate Hamas and secure Israel's safety has come at a great cost. The brave men and women of the IDF have displayed extraordinary courage and resilience, but the losses have been devastating. Families have been shattered, communities displaced, and an entire nation bears the weight of war. We stand with Israel, recognizing that the fight for security and peace comes with painful sacrifices. Yet we hold firm to the belief that Israel will emerge stronger and that these sacrifices will not be in vain.

The reverberations of this conflict extend far beyond Israel’s borders. Jewish communities worldwide have faced a disturbing surge in antisemitism — synagogues desecrated, violent attacks perpetrated, hateful rhetoric amplified. This rise in hatred is a stark reminder that the struggles of our people are not confined to one nation but are part of a broader fight against prejudice. Just as our ancestors stood resolute in the face of adversity, we must do the same. We refuse to let fear define us. We will continue to live proudly as Jews, to educate, advocate and stand in solidarity with one another.

The New Year represents renewal …despite the challenges of the past year, there is always the possibility of change, healing and peace.

Yet amid such darkness, Rosh Hashanah calls us to hope. The New Year represents renewal — a reminder that, despite the challenges of the past year, there is always the possibility of change, healing and peace. As we dip apples in honey and wish each other a sweet year, we also pray for the sweetness of peace — not only for Israel and the Jewish people but for all of humanity.

We pray for the safe return of the hostages, for a resolution to the conflict that brings security and dignity to all, and for an end to the cycle of violence that has plagued our world for far too long. May this New Year usher in healing for the wounded, comfort for the bereaved, and unity for a fractured world.

In the year ahead, may we be blessed with the courage to stand strong in adversity, the wisdom to seek peace, and the compassion to care for one another. May 5785 be a year of renewal, hope and peace — for Israel, the Jewish people and all of humanity.

Shanah Tovah U’Metukah — may it indeed be a good and sweet year. Am Yisrael Chai!

Rabbi Ammos Chorny serves at Beth Tikvah.