As we gather together with our families around the Pesach Seder table this year, the story of Pesach and the exodus is likely to take on new layers of meaning for all Jews around the world. Our Seder, will not only be about remembering past stories but also about standing strong in the face of our present-day struggles for peace, security, safety and the right for Jews to live without fear.

The chag of Pesach, is traditionally a time of reflection on freedom and resilience. We celebrate the Exodus from Egypt when Jews were freed from slavery.  This year Pesach carries extra powerful themes of hope and faith. With the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, especially after the atrocities committed on October 7, the festival of Pesach takes on a new, much more serious meaning.

The devastation and horror of October 7, where jews were ruthlessly targeted, brings the themes of oppression, suffering , devastation and abuse to the forefront of Pesach.  

In the same way as the Israelites in Egypt faced brutality and loss, many in Israel and Jewish communities worldwide have experienced unimaginable pain and loss. We all feel a sense of vulnerability and we feel we need to be part of the fight to protect our people.

BBYO South Africa was able to attend International Convention that was held in Denver in the beginning of 2025. This was a teen led Jewish youth convention with Jews coming in from all over the world to learn and grow as leaders. While we were there, we were able to attend a talk from a Nova Festival survivor Shye Klein. Shye is a photographer who attended the festival on October 6th/7th. Shye encouraged us to speak up about antisemitism , just like he has been doing through his photography and storytelling. Pesach now places an extra emphasis on resilience and faith in the face of hardship.

The Pesach story is not just about the suffering of the Israelites but about their victory over it  through the strength of community, belief, and determination.

This theme of suffering and hardship while holding onto hope resonates deeply with the current situation in Israel. It is a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is a path forward.