BOISE, Idaho — Since the October 7th terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas, Jewish communities across the United States have faced a tough reality. The Treasure Valley is unique though.
“You know, there's been a terrible rise in anti-Semitism throughout the United States and throughout the world, which is very concerning. But to us, more than that, we are reassured by the tremendous outpouring of support that we've had here locally and throughout the state of Idaho,” said Rabbi Mendel Lifshitz with the Chabad Jewish Center in Boise.
Rabbi Lifshitz recently returned from Israel.
“It was a unique trip. It was a whirlwind. I was there for two and a half days. But I got to visit with people who really are suffering over there. And so we're really happy to give them the opportunity to strengthen them and give them the moral and physical support that they need,” Lifshitz said.
The timeliness of the celebration of Chanukah is not lost on the Jewish community. Rabbi Lifshitz reflects on what he saw in Israel, and the meaning of that coming home to Idaho.
“It feels different, but I would say it feels different in a positive way because the outpouring of support, so many more people getting involved, both in the Jewish community and the wider community. You know, it's tragic that it takes world events like this to bring the best out in people, but we are seeing people come together,” Lifshitz said.
Chanukah celebrates light, especially in times of darkness. Something the Jewish people are very familiar with.
“As they say in Idaho, this ain't our first rodeo. You know, we've been through a lot over the years, but we've always learned to use those challenges as lessons and as opportunities to build. And so we look at this current situation and the current events as well as an opportunity. It's not easy. It's difficult. But at the same time, how can we become stronger? How can we as a community come together,” Lifshitz said. “So if we look at world events and just choose to use that as a social media blurb, then we haven't really stepped up. But if we're able to take the current events and transform that into even one good deed, then we're really living with the message of Chanukah.”
Idaho is linked with a past involving anti-Semitism. It’s something other Rabbis have asked Lifshitz about over the years.
“I think Idaho just has a great spirit of openness, inclusivity and acceptance. You know, one of the strangest questions I often get is, hey, in Idaho, is there anti-Semitism? People in New York and California? They're always asking me that question, and I'm happy to report that, you know, Idaho is such a welcoming place. It really is. People love to accept people for who they are. It's just one of the most hospitable and welcoming places on earth. And we love Idaho,” Lifshitz said.
Rabbi says he is a half glass full guy, the very real challenges for Jews across the world come with an opportunity. One that fits the message of Chanukah seamlessly.
“Challenges in life do not derail you. They make you stronger. And it's time for us as a community and as a people to shine a light. And we will unite through light. And that's what's so beautiful. If you ever notice, the great quality of light is if it's dark in a room and you and you light a candle, people gather around, light brings people together. And so we look at Hanukkah as an opportunity for people to come together,” Lifshitz said.
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