Navigating the Complex Heart and Mind of Yom HaZikaron |
This is the tale of two Memorial Days.
In the US, there’s the unofficial start of summer, a new season’s items on sale, BBQs, and an extra day off of work. That’s likely what’s on the average American’s mind when they think about Memorial Day. While there are parades and memorial services, overall national sadness and mourning are mixed with a solid dose of pride and celebration.
On the other hand, in Israel, there is Yom HaZikaron. In full Yom HaZikaron LeHalelei Ma’arkhot Yisrael ul’Nifge’ei Pe’ulot HaEivah is Israel’s Memorial Day. It’s the official day of remembrance for fallen soldiers and terrorism victims, enacted into Israeli law in 1963. The day carries a lot of weight for Israelis and is filled with enormous sadness, conflicted emotions, and hard to process memories.
Loss, Trauma, and a Deeply Shared National Sadness
To be Israeli on Yom HaZikaron is to experience a national sharp and shared ache. Because Israel is so small, nearly every citizen is a bereaved family member, a friend of the fallen, or knows someone who is. Television stations stop broadcasting entertainment, restaurants close, and the radio plays Hebrew songs about loss and longing.
Every Jewish event has its rules and rituals, and Yom HaZikaron is no different. Twice during the day, a piercing alarm sounds........