Via the Office of Dr. Yizhar Hess, Vice Chairman, World Zionist Organization
As Simchat Torah approaches, many in Jewish communities around the world are grappling with how to celebrate the holiday in the shadow of such immense grief and tragedy. Following the devastating events of October 7th, when so many lives were lost, the question echoes: How can we dance? How can we celebrate?
Rena Bannett , an artist from Kehilat Maayanot in Jerusalem, faced this very question and found a bold solution. She created a new cover for her congregation’s Torah, inscribing the names of those killed on October 7th and defenders we’ve lost since on the inside of the cover. This deeply personal and powerful act holds close the memories of those who were taken from us.
In a heartfelt discussion with Dr. Yizhar Hess, Rena shares her story and personal connection to October 7th. Her loss, both personal and national, reflects the pain shared by so many in Israel and among the Jewish people worldwide.
Rena’s creation provides a way to carry the enormity of our grief while still holding the Torah – our Etz Chaim, our Tree of Life. It’s a reminder that even when we feel broken, our tradition and peoplehood endure.
Watch the full discussion with Dr. Yizhar Hess to hear more about Rena’s powerful story and how she found a way to honor the memories of those we’ve lost: