What’s happening:
In a solemn yet hopeful ceremony ahead of the Jewish holiday Tu Bishvat, families planted 200 eucalyptus trees in memory of the victims of a terrorist attack by Hamas. This event occurred at the site of the Nova music festival, which experienced tragic loss on October 7th.
Why it matters:
The planting symbolizes both remembrance and rejuvenation for the community after losing 360 people during the massacre. These seedlings are marked as emblems of life, standing in contrast to the violence that shook the Kibbutz Re’im locale.
Context:
At the heart of the ceremony were Meirav and Doron Madar, parents of Shahak Yosef Madar, a 26-year-old who lost his life in the attack. They, along with approximately 1,000 relatives of other victims, gathered at the now-sacred grounds turned into a blossoming memorial of strength and persistence—a characteristic embodied by eucalyptus in Israeli culture.
Broader significance:
Trees in Jewish tradition hold profound meaning, representing vitality and might, frequently brought into practices of grief and commemoration. Organizations, including the Jewish National Fund and Zo Artzeinu, perpetuate this tradition by sponsoring tree plantings in Israel. In particular, Zo Artzeinu has pledged to plant 12,000 fruit trees near Gaza’s border—a nod to rebuilding and restoration for communities devastated by terrorism.
International echo:
In the United States, Jewish communities are participating in memorial acts for the October 7 victims. Synagogues and educational institutes are fundraising, reciting psalms, penning “wish letters,” and visually representing their unity and solidarity with the affected Israeli families.
The symbolism of growth:
The trees planted serve as a living tribute to not only those lost but also to the indomitable spirit of survival and hope that characterizes the Israeli response to adversity. Get The Times of Israel’s Daily Edition
In memoriam:
Individual tribute was paid to all Nova victims, including personal commemorations like that for Shani Louk, a renowned German-Israeli artist. Reflecting collectively the profound grief and resilience, friends, families, and attendees prayed together before planting each tree, symbolically intertwining their roots with shared memories of their loved ones.
Looking ahead:
As Tu Bishvat ushers in the new year for trees, it conjointly evokes new beginnings amid past tribulations, allowing communities, both in Israel and worldwide, to foster life amidst remembrance.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.