(Courtesy of Lamdeinu) For nearly a decade, Lamdeinu, a leading center for Torah study in Teaneck, has been hosting a meaningful Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration for women. Led by Dean Rachel Friedman, the event includes prayer, Israeli melodies, Torah teachings, reflections on Israel, and curated films. This year, the program was delivered on Zoom, welcoming participants from near and far.
The event commenced with Dr. Ann Shinnar skillfully leading the morning prayers (Tefilat Shacharit) with beautiful melodies and the recitation of Tehillim. Devoted Lamdeinu student Mollie K. Fisch recited with precision and emotion the special prayers for the safety of the Israeli armed forces and for those who are in captivity.
In the segment that followed, Dr. Marsha Edelman enriched the atmosphere with melodious renditions of “Shirei Eretz Yisrael” accompanied by insightful historical context for each piece. The focus of her presentation was songs of sorrow and strength. Through an artistic juxtaposition of songs that arose in wartime and its aftermath, Edelman educated and inspired. Participants expressed feelings of sadness, longing and joy following the presentation.
Friedman added to the inspiration with her Torah teaching. Her insightful and creative biblical study culminated in a vital message. Medinat Yisrael thrives as a light unto all nations by creating a society that is devoted to justice and giving and peace. Sometimes military strength is the only way to preserve these essential values. Since Oct. 7, Medinat Yisrael has valiantly exercised its military prowess to preserve the desideratum of peace, justice, charity and prosperity. Friedman quoted the leading military expert John Spencer who compellingly stated that “Israel has implemented more precautions to prevent military harm than any military in history.”
Friedman felt that a program celebrating the modern state of Israel should include glimpses into Israeli society through contemporary cinema. Two films were selected. The first movie was a serious drama and the second was a comedy. The film “Sister of Mine” portrayed a young ultra-Orthodox girl, Ruchi, who is pressured by her family to marry a young man that she does not find appropriate. Her family believes that because Ruchie’s sister Leah has special needs, this match is the best that Ruchie can hope for. Throughout the experience, Ruchie’s sister Leah sustains her with innocence and love. This thought-provoking movie was followed by a vibrant discussion based on guided questions prepared by Friedman.
The second movie, “Evacuation Order,” was a short comedy about a little hilltop in the Samarian hills which is slated to be dismantled. Instead, the soldier sent to evacuate the post falls in love with and marries the young woman who lives there alone. This plot keeps repeating itself until the settlement grows considerably. This comic film inspired laughter and joy for its viewers.
Lamdeinu’s Yom Ha’atzmaut Program for Women wrapped up with a stirring performance of HaTikvah by Tzahal, accompanied by a captivating slide show. Program Director Debbie Negari and Friedman extended their gratitude to all participants and sponsors for contributing to the resounding success of last Tuesday’s meaningful event. Looking ahead, Lamdeinu eagerly anticipates marking Yom Ha’Atzmaut once more next year, in honor of Israel’s 77th anniversary.
The Lamdeinu center for adult torah learning offers classes and beit midrash study every Monday through Thursday. Special programs are held to celebrate the holidays and memorial days in the Jewish calendar as well as to mark important moments in recent Jewish history such as Yom HaShoah, Yom Ha’Atzmaut and the upcoming Yom Yerushalayim. Lamdeinu’s summer programs will take place in June and July. For more information, contact Negari at [email protected] or visit Lamdeinu at www.lamdeinu.org.
