Kansas City Rabbis Feel Local Impact of Israel-Hamas War
In the wake of the recent war between Israel and Hamas, the Jewish community in Kansas City has been left grappling with an alarming rise in antisemitic attacks. The distressing shift in hostility against the Jews began with the merciless attack on Israel by Hamas last October, stirring anguish amongst rabbis and their congregations.
Rabbi Stephanie Kramer of Congregation B’nai Jehudah captured the zeitgeist, saying, “Everything has really shifted since Oct. 7. It is forefront on our minds as far as prayer, services, programming, pastoral care.” Jonathan Rudnik, the community rabbi for Jewish Family Services, echoed her sentiments, stating, “For every individual Jewish person I know, it’s a nightmare. It’s a daily, even hourly ongoing trauma.”
Rabbi Doug Alpert of Congregation Kol Ami emphasizes the effect of the war on everyday life, underlining the fact that the issue comes up almost every day, either in person or through news articles.
Antisemitism or Pro-Hamas?
Though the war primarily occurred in the Middle East, it left a profound impact on Jews around the world. The subsequent antisemitic attacks made it feel as though the Hamas was targeting them personally. The investment of emotions and connections into this international clash was so strong, it led priests, imams, pastors, and clergy members of all faiths to join in response.
One such startling response came from Rabbi Mark Levin of Congregation Beth Torah. “The narrative of Israel as a protector of the Jewish people, as David against Goliath… is entirely gone. Not even Jews know the origin story of Israel anymore. That’s a tragedy,” expressed Levin. According to him, rampant antisemitism has left the Jewish community frightened.
Confronting Antisemitism
The fear has been so palpable in recent times that the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education has been more engaged in antisemitism-related programs than Holocaust historical presentations. Rabbi Kramer echoed these concerns, stating, “We are pulling double time teaching antisemitism and how to combat it and we’re teaching Israeli history and Middle East history and all of those different pieces” in addition to fundamental Judaism.
Rabbi Jacques Cukierkorn of Temple Israel of Greater Kansas City conveyed a mixed feeling of despair and support. On one hand, he received a loving and supportive phone call from a stranger. On the other, he was offered help to teach his congregation how to defend themselves using firearms.
Amidst Widespread Discontent, Stands a Ray of Hope
Despite these troubling times and growing concern over campus protests, not all area Jews feel the same. Rabbi Doug Alpert notes, “One of the sad pieces is how it has divided people within the Jewish community…And if you believe Hamas could be eliminated, is (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu the guy you want winning your war?”
Regardless of differing viewpoints, the Kansas City Jewish community finds strength in unity, standing together in these challenging times. As the war rages on and antisemitism continues to rise, local rabbis strive to uplift their communities, provide support, and continue to lead their congregations with unwavering faith and resilience.
