This Shmini Atzeres and Simchas Torah, as we celebrate the completion and renewal of the Torah reading cycle, we will honor the memory of our precious brothers and sisters who were tragically taken from us one year ago on October 7th.
To commemorate their yahrtzeit, our shul, along with many others around the world, will use a unique Memorial Bima Cover. The names of each of the victims who were so cruelly taken from us are inscribed on the cover, which encircles the bima from which the Torah is read, from where our prayers ascend heavenward, memorializing and elevating their souls.
In the center of the Memorial Bima Cover are the poignant words from the Torah: “He (Hashem) will avenge the blood of His servants… and placate His land — His people.” The Hebrew letters הי״ד, which stand for the phrase “May G-d exact retribution for their blood,” are fashioned into the shape of a flame, representing the souls of the martyrs.
As we gather together on this sacred day and wrap our bima in this meaningful cover, we will remember them. We will say the mourner’s kaddish and pray that their souls be elevated. We will beseech the Almighty to comfort their families and all who mourn them.
Most of all, we will honor them by celebrating the Torah with joy and resolve, raising our voices in song and prayer, and cherishing the precious gift of Jewish life.
May their memory forever be a blessing, and may we be united with them again soon, with the coming of Moshiach speedily in our days.
Thank you, Linda Norton, for sponsoring this meaningful dedication.
