Rosh Hashanah Remarks: Adas Israel
September 18, 2001Thank for the kind words, Rabbi Wolberg. And Shana Tovah to the entire congregation.
Today, we are filled with great pain as last week's tragedy still resonates in our hearts and minds.
Though no words can describe the grief and sorrow of the Israeli people, I wish to convey the profound condolences of my country, to the citizens of America, for their immeasurable loss.
Though we have come to welcome a New Year, this Rosh Hashanah seems
different than those of the past. Throughout the world, Jews find it difficult to celebrate, as our uncertainty about the future overshadows the joy of the New Year.
Amidst the uncertainty, one thing remains clear. Now, more than ever, Jews in Israel and the United States stand together as partners, family, and friends.
We are forever partners in the quest for security, stability, and peace. We are forever family, for our hearts are united, and our voices are one. And we are forever friends, bonded by one shared history , and one common future.
Though our lives have been changed forever, the ties that bind us are unshakable. As the world mourns the loss of thousands, we must remember. We have been hurt, but we are not broken. Dreams have been cut short, but our hope for the future lives on.
Throughout our history, the Jewish people have endured both tragedy and triumph. Just as our ancestors in Egypt overcame slavery and established a Jewish nation , we have emerged from the shadows of the Holocaust and established a modem Jewish state.
In the face of challenges, we have remained resolute and strong. And facing the terror that has afflicted Israel over the past year, our will and determination has only increased.
In the past week , we have come to witness that terrorism has no borders. It is global, not regional , and increasingly difficult to contain.
Radical Muslim leaders have waged a culture war against Western values. Namely, globalization , modernization , and democracy (P. This is in contrast to moderate elements within Islam that are promoting progress and peace.
Unfortunately, there are those who have already begun to exploit last week's tragedy by claiming that it was a direct result of U.S. policy toward Israel in the wake of the failed peace process.
This is a dangerous and wrong argument, which we!!! must denounce , while working to defend the truth. I encourage you to raise your voices, and remind others -the conflict in Israel did .!!.2! bring about the horrors experienced in the United States.
In fact, we now know that preparations for this attack began years ago , while hope for the peace process was at its peak.
Though facing separate conflicts , it is clear that the nations of the world share a common enemy , as we are forced to fight a &!9J!!! battle against terror. World wide , we now must mobilize to combat incitement , and the perpetuation of hate.
As we have seen , the power of words and hatred supercedes that of weapons and military strength.
The world has been awakened to this threat, and it has become clear that we cannot afford to be complacent any longer.
We must realize that an incident of terror!!! anywhere - whether it be in Jerusalem or Washington - is an attack on people everywhere. These are attacks against humanity.
Let me send the message to world Jewry that Israel will deal with these challenges with uncompromisin2 resolution, and unity. And like!!! challenges we have faced in the past , we !!ill overcome.
Today, America and Israel stand with determination and resolve to protect the fundamental principles of our two great nations. That of freedom, democracy, tolerance. Justice, and the promotion of peace.
Just as the United States has assisted Israel - especially in its time of need - Israelis stand hand-in-hand with Americans. To protect values that we both cherish, and defend the sanctity of human life.
Let the message of solidarity and support resonate throughout the £!!!i!:£ Jewish . nation. From this synagogue, to the center of Israel - we are one and our hearts are one.
"Am Yisrael Chai."
