Statement on the Current Conflict Between the United States/Israel, and Iran

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRpo6oD1Bfk

Words of Torah From Rabbi Baum on Erev Purim

Since October 7, 2023, a shadow has been cast over one of our most joyous holidays, Simchat Torah. The day we call Zman Simchateinu, the time of our happiness, became forever intertwined with grief and vulnerability.

Now, in 2026, as news unfolds of American and Israeli strikes against Iran and the Iranian retaliation, we mourn the loss of American service members and the Israeli civilians targeted by the Iranian regime; another shadow falls, this time over Purim.

Purim teaches us something profound about Jewish joy. It is not naïve happiness. It is not denial of danger, rather it is a joy that emerges after fear that is born in the face of uncertainty.

In the fourth chapter of Megillat Esther, when Mordechai learns of Haman’s decree, he tears his clothes and sits in sackcloth and ashes. The Jewish people gather in anguish. They fast, cry out, and sit shiva for themselves. There is seemingly no hope; only fear of what will ultimately come.

But the fourth chapter is not the end of the story.

Esther calls upon the people to fast for three days. In the darkness of that fast, courage is formed. In uncertainty, a plan takes shape. Only after vulnerability and collective solidarity does the story turn on its head: Na’hafoch hu.

It is hard to see hope when you are in the midst of fasting. Today, on Ta’anit Esther, we fast. Tonight, we will read a story of reversal, resilience, and courage, and tomorrow, we will feast. But not just us, also the food-insecure we feed with our Matanot Le’evyonim (gifts to the poor) and our Mishloach Manot, the treats that we give to our friends and community members.

As we watch events unfold in the Middle East, we pray for the safety of American and Israeli soldiers serving in harm’s way. We mourn the loss of life, and we pray for innocent civilians caught in forces beyond their control because, unlike our enemies, we believe that human life is sacred.

Please know that your safety is of utmost importance to us. We have been in direct communication with local law enforcement. We received assurances from Captain David Moss of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office that while the recent conflict involving the United States and Israel has prompted heightened awareness and increased patrols around Jewish facilities, there are currently no known local threats to our community. Law enforcement intelligence units are actively monitoring the situation and will respond immediately to any change. Out of an abundance of caution, patrol presence has been increased around Jewish institutions.

Let’s show up.

Let’s show up with pride.

Let’s show up as Jews who refuse to let fear define our calendar or our spirit.

Let’s show up for our brothers and sisters in Israel who are hiding in bomb shelters under missile attack from Iran.

May the One who makes peace in the heavens grant protection to those who serve, comfort to those who mourn, wisdom to leaders who carry grave responsibility, and may this moment ultimately turn toward stability and peace.

Rabbi David Baum, Congregation Shaarei Kodesh

Monday, March 2, 2026 - Adar 13 5786