Criticism of Hatikva not sung at shul service, grossly unfair

Hilly Golombick

Whereas I cannot speak for the recent memorial service(s) held in Johannesburg for the Har Nof Shul terror attack, it is unfair to malign the Chief Rabbi or any rabbi or chazzan for not singing Hatikva. 

The Port Elizabeth Hebrew Congregation held the same memorial service  under the auspices of the Office of the Chief Rabbi and UOS (Beth Din ) and Hatikva was sung on this occasion. I have, over the past few years, organised such events and memorials concerning Israel. Often, circumstances have  necessitated that Hatikva is not sung.

Factors such as the nature of the service, the participating congregation, (for instance in the Eastern Cape we have a strong Christian Zionist and pro-Israel lobby), time etc, determine whether Hatikva is sung or not.

Also, it is important not to turn memorial prayer events into political shows.

Israel is a non-negotiable in many of our lives and it is only through unity that we can seek to accomplish our goals.  

Perhaps the letter writer should direct his sentiment to the SAZF, who often hold functions where the absence of the rendering of Hatikva is noticeable.

The Chief Rabbi is the communities’ voice and advocate in support and defence of the State of Israel and as a community we thank him for that role and appreciate all he is doing in defending the honour of the State of Israel.

Port Elizabeth Hebrew congregation