Signs of regeneration

In the wake of the diplomatic fallout following 7 October 2023, the South African government announced the closure of its embassy in Tel Aviv and suspension of diplomatic activity “until a ceasefire is agreed to by Israel during the current state of conflict”. Now that full-scale hostilities have ceased, we have formally written to the presidency requesting clarification about when the embassy will be reopened. We have been informed that our letter has been referred to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation. We will keep the community updated once we receive a response.

Last week, we celebrated Tu B’Shvat, one of my favourite chaggim. Tu B’Shvat marks the beginning of the agricultural year in Israel, and celebrates the Jewish people’s deep-rooted, indigenous connection to the land of Israel by highlighting seven native species. The festival’s theme of regeneration is particularly significant for us as South African Jews and for the Board’s work. After all, few acts symbolise investing in the future as much as planting a tree, an act whose true benefits may be enjoyed only by generations to come.

This year, these themes take on added meaning as we reflect on the 500th day of conflict in Israel. Regeneration and reaffirming our indigenous connection to Israel are more vital than ever in these challenging times.

In this spirit of regeneration, the Board remains committed to strengthening interfaith and intercommunal relations, which have long been a cornerstone of our community’s place in South African society. Last week, we held a productive meeting with the Hellenic community to explore new opportunities for collaboration. The bond between our communities is longstanding, with a rich shared history, and we are proud to count a historic Greek Jewish community, including some members in South Africa, among our extended communal family. As I have often emphasised in this column, dialogue offers far more than conflict ever could. Continued efforts by our friends to engage with our community show us that we aren’t alone.

In another effort to build a secure Jewish future, our national director, Wendy Kahn, is in Israel attending the Conference of Presidents of the American Jewish Committee. There, she is meeting with counterparts from the global diaspora and Israel to address the many challenges facing international Jewry today. Despite the relatively small size of our community, we take great pride in participating in global discussions that shape the future of world Jewry. We will continue to share our experiences and insights at these important forums.

Poignantly, as part of the conference, the delegation planted trees at Kibbutz Nahal Oz, one of the worst affected kibbutzim on 7 October. At Nahal Oz, in addition to murder and kidnapping, the terrorists deliberately planned to destroy all the agriculture, burning fields, tractors, cow sheds, and chicken coups, and destroying all the kibbutz’s farming technology. Kahn also returned to Kibbutz Nir Oz to view plans for its rebuilding. Truly an inspiring sign of resilience, strength, and regeneration.

• Listen to Charisse Zeifert on Jewish Board Talk, 101.9 ChaiFM, every Friday from 12:00 to 13:00.