17 Dec Hebrew – A Bridge to Identity and Connection in Our Changing Times
The world is undergoing rapid change, and alongside progress and growth, we are also witnessing challenges that affect us as Jews both locally and globally. It has been a particularly difficult time, not only for our brothers and sisters in Israel but for Jewish communities worldwide. Antisemitism, once thought to be fading into history, is alarmingly on the rise, including here in Australia. These challenges remind us of the importance of standing together, of remembering who we are, and of deepening our connection to our roots. In this endeavour, the Hebrew language plays an irreplaceable role.
Hebrew: A Living Link to Our Past
Hebrew is more than just a language; it is the thread that weaves our people’s story together. From the Torah to the poetry of modern Israel, Hebrew is the language through which our values, traditions, and aspirations have been expressed for millennia. When our students engage with Hebrew, they are not simply learning to speak, read, and write. They are unlocking the gateway to understanding the prayers we recite, the texts we study, and the shared heritage that binds Jews across time and space.
In an age of increasing assimilation, Hebrew serves as a reminder of our collective identity. It is the voice of our ancestors and the key to ensuring that their wisdom and resilience are carried forward into the future.
A Connection to Israel and the Jewish People
Now, more than ever, Hebrew connects us directly to the modern State of Israel, the homeland of the Jewish people. Israel, with all its complexities, remains a beacon of hope and a central pillar of our identity. Learning Hebrew enables us to engage more deeply with Israeli culture, politics, and society. It allows us to understand the headlines, empathise with the challenges, and celebrate the triumphs of our brothers and sisters in the land of our forefathers.
Hebrew education strengthens the bond between diaspora Jews and Israel. It fosters a sense of belonging to a global Jewish community, encouraging students to see themselves as part of something much larger than their immediate surroundings.
Empowering Students in the Face of Rising Antisemitism
The rise in antisemitism is a stark reminder that our identity cannot be taken for granted. Equipping our students with a strong sense of who they are is one of the most effective ways to prepare them to navigate a world that may not always be welcoming. Hebrew is a cornerstone of that identity.
When our students can confidently speak and understand Hebrew, they carry with them a piece of Jewish pride and resilience. They know their history, their culture, and their place in the story of the Jewish people. This knowledge can empower them to stand tall in the face of prejudice, to advocate for Israel and Jewish causes, and to contribute meaningfully to the broader community.
Creating a Sense of Belonging in Challenging Times
The Hebrew classroom is more than a space for language instruction; it is a place where students can explore what it means to be Jewish in today’s world. Through Hebrew, they grapple with questions of identity, heritage, and connection. They learn not only about the language but also about the values and ethics that define us as a people.
At Leibler Yavneh College, we strive to make Hebrew education relevant and engaging, connecting our students to the realities of their world while grounding them in the timeless principles of our faith and culture.
Looking to the Future
As we navigate these challenging times, the importance of Hebrew as a bridge to identity and connection becomes ever clearer. It is a tool for fostering understanding and unity within our community and for building bridges to Israel and the broader Jewish world.
To parents, I say this: Encourage your children to embrace the gift of Hebrew. It is a passport to their heritage, a means of connecting with the global Jewish family, and a source of strength in uncertain times. To students, I urge you to see Hebrew at Yavneh not as a subject to be learned but as a treasure to be cherished.
In these changing times, Hebrew stands as a beacon of hope, a testament to our resilience, and a call to unity. Let us seize the opportunity to deepen our connection to our language, our people, and our shared destiny. Through Hebrew, we remember who we are, we stand together, and we move forward with pride and purpose.
Wishing you all a Happy Chanukah.
