This morning, we visited the site of the Nova Massacre, where, on the morning of October 7, a sudden and horrific blitz of terror was unleashed upon thousands of young Israelis. This catastrophic event led to hundreds of deaths, numerous injuries, and the indescribable horror of savage acts of rape and kidnapping. Today, we gathered at this hallowed ground as witnesses to the largest massacre in the annals of Israel.
In a poignant transformation, the earth that was soaked with the blood of the innocent now provides sustenance to hundreds of trees planted in their memory. Each tree stands as a living memorial, bearing the name and embodying the spirit of an individual whose life was brutally snatched away.
כי האדם עץ השדה – the Torah draws a compelling comparison between a person and a tree, a message which is imbued with deep symbolism. Just as a tree is composed of roots, a trunk, branches, leaves, and fruit, so too is a person. This metaphor speaks to the foundational values, connections, contributions, and legacies we each hold. The roots symbolize our heritage and the depth of our beliefs, anchoring us firmly. The trunk represents our core character and strength, supporting us through life’s challenges. Branches reflect our relationships and the reach of our influence, while leaves and fruit signify our deeds and the legacy we leave behind.
Trees grow at a gradual pace, and it will take many days, weeks, months, and years for these memorial trees to tower over this sacred site. Though the physical growth may not be immediately visible, it is unceasing, with each moment contributing to the eventual majesty of these living tributes.
In a similar vein, the path to redemption is referred to as a process of צמיחה, or growth. Indeed, whenever we pray for the coming of משיח, we ask Hashem to nurture the growth of צמח דוד. Redemption is a gradual process, often imperceptible in the moment, yet constantly unfolding. Just as these trees will one day stand tall and strong, symbolizing resilience and renewal, so too will the spirit of our nation, nurtured by the memories of those we’ve lost and the collective resolve to build a future in our Land.
At the sacred site at Nova, where terror once reigned, a forest of memorial trees rises, symbolizing the path to redemption. Each growing tree, dedicated to a lost life, reflects our unwavering belief in the process of גאולה, an ever-unfolding process of development and growth, קימעה קימעה, moving forward, one step at a time.
To Whom It May Concern 