10 Meaningful Ways to Commemorate October 7th
"Action is the only remedy to indifference: the most insidious danger of all” — Elie Wiesel
October 7, 2023
This day will live on in our memories as the start of the most painful period of collective grief among the Jewish people since the Holocaust. While there is a lot to say about the impact of this day and the past year on the Jewish world, Judaism also calls us to act. Here are some ways to help yourself, the Jewish people, and the world.
1. Light a Yahrtzeit candle.
These candles are also called Ner Neshama, a soul candle, and we remember the souls of more than 1200 Israelis who were killed.
2. Study Torah
Studying the Torah elevates the souls of those who were killed and inspired us in our lives as Jews. Consider Pirkei Avot or other parts of the Mishna. The letters of Mishna are the same as those of Neshama, the soul.
3. Do a Mitzvah
Doing mitzvot brings holiness into the world to replace the extinguished light. Here are some mitzvot connected to this time of year: make sure to repay all your debts if you can, call someone you angered and apologize, donate to Jewish causes, say Psalms, and check in on your parents and grandparents.
4. Tzedakah and Chesed
Transform grief and pain into light and positive results with tzedakah for those in need in memory of the victims of Oct. 7, and plan to volunteer your time this year to help others.
5. Make plans to visit the Nova Festival Memorial exhibit
The exhibit has been extended in LA. This is a way to learn more about the horrible events of October 7th.
6. Call or spend time with your loved ones
We are all in grief. One of the healthiest ways to deal with grief is to be in touch with loved ones, friends, and family.
7. Solidarity with family and friends in Israel
Support our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisrael living through such difficult conditions by sending them a message or calling.
8. Take time to process
Journaling is healthy. Even for a few minutes, take a moment to process your thoughts.
9. Advocate for the hostages still in Gaza
With hostages still alive in horrible conditions, we must remind the world of their plight and pray for their safe return. Make sure the world remembers - and if you can, call politicians in DC to work on their release.
10. Make sure you and every Jew we know have plans for Yom Kippur
Every Jew is needed in synagogue this year to pray together to help end this suffering. Every Jew’s voice and prayer is dear to God, and everyone’s prayer is needed now.