Jewish Holidays

Rav Kook ingeniously explains that all ideologies can be defined within the major 3 ideologies of mankind: religion- nationalism- morality/universalism. These are also the 3 factions causing the disunity in Israel today. These 3 are all (and always were) based in Yerushalayim- the national, religious and universal capitol. All 3 are not only ideals, but also necessary to balance & make sure that the other 2 don't get extreme, and start putting down the others

What do we and should we think about during the national siren in Israel on Yom HaZikaron? What is the significance, and what are the spiritual benefits and messages of Yom haZikaron? What are those who miss this experience missing out on? (see also my class here on "Wars & Selflessness", and the entire series of Orot HaMilchama of Rav Kook)

The two "heaviest" days of the year in Israel are "Yom HaShoah" and "Yom HaZikaron". There's a special feeling when not only does your school commemorate them, but an entire country stops in solidarity, standing at attention for the siren. Nevertheless there are several significant differences symbolized by the week differentiating between the two.

This year's unique situation of "Erev Pesach which Falls on Shabbat", and especially during the war in Israel, is a classic example of the difference between Rav Kook and religious-Zionism, as opposed to Chabad and Haredi Judaism, and the need to shift gears to build a Jewish Nation. To care not just for our religiosity, but about EACH OTHER'S religiosity AND security. Our historic and fortunate period in Jewish history also involves rising and in fact returning to the authentic Torah outlook & realization, that we are not individuals in a tiny shtetl, but once again, we are the authentic Am Yisrael with the Living Torah and mutual love and responsibility.