Tisha B’Av Reflection: Drawing Strength from Israel, the Lion and King Hezekiah
As the Lion of Israel rises in the midst of the nations, attempts are made to control the land of Israel and destroy her people. Despite these attempts, the strength of Israel the Lion is revealed.
As the fast of Tisha B’Av draws to a close, my heart turns to Israel, the Lion’s enduring legacy. It is the fierce, unyielding spirit of our patriarch Jacob. This spirit symbolizes resilience in the face of exile and destruction. This solemn day commemorates the fall of both Temples. It evokes the profound heartache of our ancestors. Their tears still echo through Jewish history. Yet, in this moment of mourning, I find solace. I hold onto the promise of renewal. This includes the rebuilding of the Temple and the restoration of peace in the Land of Israel.
“These I will bring to my holy mountain,
and make them joyful in my house of prayer;
their burnt offerings and their sacrifices
will be accepted on my altar;
for my house shall be called a house of prayer
for all peoples.” (Isaiah 56:7)
These words from the Prophet Isaiah stir a vision of unity and holiness, a beacon for our fractured world. Today, as we navigate suffering and war in the Land of Israel and beyond, the heartache of today is evident. It mirrors the ruins of yesterday. Another year passes without the House of Hashem standing tall in Jerusalem—another cycle of brokenness that tests our faith. But despair need not define us. As a proud Jew, I see a path forward rooted in our sacred traditions, guided by the spirit of Israel the Lion.
The Story of Hezekiah: A Timeless Answer to Modern Challenges
Enter King Hezekiah, whose tale in the Book of Kings offers profound hope for our era. Facing Assyrian siege and divine judgment, Hezekiah turned to prayer, Torah observance, and unwavering trust in Hashem. His reforms—cleansing the Temple, reinstating Passover, and rallying the people—averted disaster and sparked revival. This narrative isn’t mere history; it’s a blueprint for today. In the face of existential threats to the Land of Israel, Hezekiah’s story teaches us an important lesson. We must begin with spiritual renewal. Only then can physical redemption occur.
It’s time for Jews worldwide to boldly share the Torah. Its wisdom on justice, compassion, and covenant is vital. A world desperate for moral clarity needs this wisdom. Let us amplify the enduring spirit of Israel the Lion. It roars in defiance against oppression. It inspires not just survival but triumph. And yes, we must claim our land. It’s the biblical heartland promised to Abraham’s seed. We stand firm against division and doubt. We do this just like Israel the Lion would.
Rebuilding the House of Hashem: Our Collective Mission
Central to this vision is the rebuilding of the Temple, the House of Hashem, where heaven and earth meet. Drawing inspiration from Israel the Lion’s tenacity and Hezekiah’s faith, we can transform mourning into action. There are several initiatives aimed at achieving this sacred goal. These include educating on Temple rituals. Advocating for Jewish sovereignty in Jerusalem is another critical step. Additionally, fostering global prayer for peace plays a crucial role. Tisha B’Av isn’t just a lament; it’s a catalyst for Jewish renewal and the dawn of messianic hope.
In sharing these reflections, I invite you—Jew and gentile alike—to join this journey. Explore the Torah’s teachings, honor the Land of Israel, and envision a house of prayer for all peoples. From the ashes of Tisha B’Av, may the spirit of Israel the Lion guide us to rebuild. Let it inspire us to unite and rebuild the Temple.