What it’s about
The word “slicha,” meaning “sorry” in Hebrew, has gained widespread usage among Israelis grappling with the recent tragic events involving hostages taken by Hamas.
Why it matters
“Slicha” represents not just individual apologies but a collective sense of remorse and responsibility burgeoning within Israeli society as they mourn the loss of lives and reckon with the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The term highlights the compassionate and unified nature of Israeli communities during times of overwhelming grief and crisis.
Details
At Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s funeral, Israeli President Isaac Herzog fervently apologized for the nation’s inability to rescue him and other hostages from Hamas. Herzog’s heartfelt “slicha,” both in Hebrew and English, resonated deeply, embodying the anguish of families and their supporters.
Ordinary Citizens Expressing Solidarity
The public expression of “slicha” has emerged clearly at various vigils. Sightings can be noted from Jerusalem, where mourners at the remembrance for Goldberg-Polin and five other fallen hostages expressed their pained “slicha” on placards, to New York’s Columbus Circle, demonstrating a communal sense of mourning transcending borders.
Deep-Rooted Cultural and Religious Context
Utilized extensively during the Jewish High Holidays, “slicha” ties deeply into religious practices calling for self-reflection and penitence. It has recurred at public demonstrations calling upon the Israeli government for decisive action in securing hostage releases, echoing an ingrained cultural drive towards collective responsibility.
Public Reflection and Morale
Prominent figures, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have used “slicha” while addressing the kidnapped families, amalgamating personal empathy with national accountability. Such expressions underscore a collective self-examination marking this tough juncture while highlighting Israel’s resolve towards improvement and empathy.
Voices of Unity and Perseverance
Individuals such as Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie from New York’s Lab/Shul congregation emphasize the innate Jewish inclination for communal cohesion and support towards problem-solving, witnessed actively during ongoing demonstrations demanding hostages’ freedom.
Survivor’s Guilt and Responsibility
Academics highlight that “slicha” has also emerged as an outlet for survivor’s guilt among many Israelis who aren’t on the frontlines but yearn empathically with affected families. Their collective declarations transmit a profound gesture recognizing a shared societal responsibility amidst incredibly challenging circumstances.
Impact on Broader Sentiment
Public speakers and leaders, including grieving parents, have enlisted “slicha” to underscore their attempts and hopes that the situation witnesses insight, perseverance, and resolution. This candor in sharing culpability collectively fortifies a nation sure of confronting adversities unimpededly, led by Israel’s heartening empathy and unwavering unity.
This story was first published on jpost.com.