As Rosh Hashanah approaches, calls for renewed gratitude amid prevailing societal divisions have gained prominence, emphasizing a collective desire to move beyond grievance and discord. The Jewish New Year, celebrated this year on Sunday, offers an opportunity for spiritual and communal renewal, encouraging reflection on shared values and mutual appreciation.
Across Israel and its diaspora, political and social tensions have deepened in recent months. Within Israel, disputes over leadership and military conduct have sparked debate, exemplified by criticism between public figures. Sara Netanyahu, wife of Israel’s Prime Minister, publicly questioned the actions of former brigadier general Yair Golan, who has been credited with assisting survivors during the October 7 Supernova music festival attack. Golan, in turn, has faced backlash for remarks perceived as critical of certain military operations and policies, highlighting divisions between military leadership and public opinion.
These internal tensions appear alongside broader criticism from retired Israeli military commanders. Figures such as former chief-of-staff and defense minister Moshe “Boogie” Ya’alon have voiced strong condemnation of settler-related violence and the treatment of Palestinians, using charged language relating to ethnic cleansing and societal extremism. Such statements have fueled public debate regarding Israel’s current trajectory and the challenges faced by its defense forces.
Amid these contentious discussions, the themes of Rosh Hashanah center on humility, renewal, and gratitude. The liturgy of the holiday includes prayers such as Modeh Ani, which expresses thanks for the restoration of the soul each morning, and Hayom Harat Olam, which acknowledges the creation of the universe. The sounding of the shofar on the holiday’s eve serves as a symbolic call to self-examination and spiritual awakening, guiding individuals toward appreciation of life, nature, and community.
Historically, gratitude has been a foundational element in Zionist thought and Israeli identity. Labor Zionist philosopher A.D. Gordon emphasized creating a life sustained by intrinsic vitality and cultural pride. Successive leaders including David Ben-Gurion and Golda Meir have underscored optimism as essential to the Zionist project. Nobel laureate S.Y. Agnon highlighted the importance of sanctifying daily pleasures through blessings and even recognized the role of adversity in strengthening resolve.
Honoring those who have fallen since the October 7 attacks, numerous tributes across Israel reflect this ethos of gratitude and resilience. The words of several young soldiers memorialized in public displays convey messages of thankfulness, positivity, and forward-looking determination, underscoring the values they embraced in life and service.
As Israel and Jewish communities worldwide observe Rosh Hashanah, there is an expressed hope that leaders and citizens alike will embrace a spirit of gratitude and unity, setting aside bitterness and division to foster renewal and strength in the year ahead.