Emerging victorious through suffering

Addy Joffe, BBYO mazkirah, Grade 11, King David Linksfield

Emerging victorious through suffering

As we gather with our families around the Pesach seder table this year, the story of the exodus is likely to take on new layers of meaning for all Jews around the world. Our seder won’t just be about remembering past stories but also about standing strong in the face of our present-day struggle for peace, security, safety, and the right for Jews to live without fear.

The chag is traditionally a time of reflection on freedom and resilience. We celebrate the exodus from Egypt when Jews were freed from slavery. This year, Pesach carries extra powerful themes of hope and faith. With the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, especially after the atrocities committed on 7 October, the festival takes on a new, much more serious meaning.

The devastation and horror of October 7, when Jews were ruthlessly targeted, brings the themes of oppression, suffering, devastation, and abuse to the forefront of Pesach.

In the same way as the Israelites in Egypt faced brutality and loss, many in Israel and Jewish communities worldwide have experienced unimaginable pain and loss. We all feel a sense of vulnerability and the need to be part of the fight to protect our people.

BBYO South Africa attended an international convention in Denver at the beginning of 2025. Jews came from all over the world to learn and grow as leaders at this teen-led Jewish youth convention. While we were there, we were able to attend a talk from Nova festival survivor Shye Klein, a photographer who was at the festival on 6 and 7 October. Klein encouraged us to speak up about antisemitism, just like he has been doing through his photography and storytelling. Pesach places extra emphasis on resilience and faith in the face of hardship.

The Pesach story isn’t just about the suffering of the Israelites but about emerging victorious through the strength of community, belief, and determination. This theme of suffering and hardship while holding onto hope resonates deeply with the situation in Israel. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s a path forward.