Mourning and Memorialization

Key Findings:

The author recounts his first Passover Seder since the tragic murders of his daughter, Shachar Deborah, and son in law, Shlomi Mathias, who were killed in their homes on October 7. They were survived by their three children.  

The Passover Haggadah calls on the Jewish people to retell the story of their slavery in Egypt. The holiday itself is an active act of commemoration. Following October 7, Passover and the questions it posed took on a new meaning and significance. What will be done to remember October 7? How will it be remembered?

Israelis and Jews have shown extraordinary resilience as a community since October 7, in a way that somewhat differs from past examples throughout Israel's history. The current near-constant memorializations of October 7 (speaking engagements, memorial days etc.) overlap with both deep personal grief to create strength and resolve to move forward. 

The author reflects on the sources of hope for his family – in particular, how support from the nation helped carry them and their grandchildren through their grief. He mentions unique support structures within Israel that help foster resilience among survivors. 

The nature of the October 7 attack signified a threat to Jewish existence as a whole. Due to this, there is no alternative other than to rebuild the country's strength and continue the Zionist project as an act of resilience. 

Current primary concerns involve seeing the endpoint of the war, securing the return of the hostages, and resuming normal life in the country.