Here is Ed Davey’s message for Passover, published last night. Our best wishes to all celebrating today.
At sundown tonight, Jewish communities in the UK and around the world will mark the beginning of Passover, the eight-day festival commemorating the liberation of the Israelites after 400 years of slavery in ancient Egypt.
The story of the Exodus has inspired generations; it’s a story of hope and triumph. It shows us what’s possible when we hold tight to faith in the midst of darkness and uncertainty. This is a message that’s relevant, even today.
Usually, Passover is a large celebratory affair, marked by generations of families gathering around the Seder table to share a festive meal. However, this year celebrations will be smaller. Many will look around the table and think of loved ones who cannot be there and some traditions may even be modified in an attempt to adapt to these unprecedented times.
I know that celebrating Passover like this, for a second time, will be difficult but let us keep working together to suppress this virus and let’s hold on to the hope that we will be with our loved ones again.
I’d like to end by recognising the important contributions made British Jewish communities to our country; from those working in our frontline services, to the dedicated volunteers assisting the most vulnerable- thank you for your acts of kindness and generosity.
Heartfelt wishes to everyone celebrating over the coming days. Chag Sameach!
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4 Comments
Chag Sameach indeed!… I would also like to wish the Palestinians living under apartheid occupation Chag Sameach! Please note that far from all Jews approve of the mal-treatment of Palestinians in their own country, yet may be called anti-
semites themselves for opposing Settler-colonial Zionism. Opposing human rights abuses by (Israeli) Jews is NOT anti-semitism.
Chag Sameach!
@John Hall: Neither the time nor the place. The OP doesn’t even mention the modern state of Israel (as opposed to the Biblical Israelites), so where’s the justification for bringing up the modern Israel~Palestine conflict in an article about a Jewish festival?
Criticism of the policies of the modern Israeli government is not antisemitic. But shoehorning the modern Israel~Palestine conflict into a discussion of a Jewish celebration is, because it assumes that all Jewish people, wherever they live and whatever their loyalties, have to atone for the actions of the Israeli government towards the Palestinian people.
To understand why it’s inappropriate, just imagine an article on Ed’s message to Muslims in Eid or Ramadan, and whether it would be appropriate to add a comment about ISIS or the Taliban.
After attending a virtual synagogue meeting this morning, I felt to reflect on the present situation we all face.
I know little about politics, but I understand difference between right and wrong.
Often, I comment on the failures of family law, housing and disability, because within our prayers we uphold those values. The widow and the stranger.
We are all entitled to an opinion, we should be free to do just that.
After many years of slavery it’s the freedom was celebrated, but, life is not easy as history proved.
John Hall, I hope you view me in a positive light.
Nothing about Easter ?