Post-Oct 7 Surge: Jews Reconnecting with Identity and Israel
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Post-Oct 7, many diaspora Jews are reconnecting with their identity and Israel.
- This trend, called "October 8th Jews," involves a return to Jewish life and heritage.
- Increased interest in aliyah and Jewish education is also being observed.
- Diminished global Jewish security is a factor driving this identity search.
- The WZO is supporting remembrance events and educational initiatives worldwide.
Following the October 7th Hamas attacks, Yaakov Hagoel, Chairman of the World Zionist Organization, has observed a significant resurgence of Jewish identity and connection to Israel among diaspora communities. He describes this phenomenon, dubbed "October 8th Jews," as a return to Jewish life for individuals who had previously distanced themselves from their heritage. Hagoel estimates that approximately 100,000 Jews in the United States alone fit this description, having been drawn back to their roots and to Israel in the wake of the events.
Hagoel stated that the past year has been particularly challenging for Jews globally, with 20 antisemitic murders reported. However, he views the increased engagement with Jewish identity and Zionism as a way to transform this crisis into an opportunity. He noted a substantial rise in interest in aliyah (immigration to Israel) and Jewish education, alongside a significant increase in visits to Israel, with tens of thousands of Jews visiting during the Sukkot holiday.
He attributes this renewed connection partly to a diminished sense of security among Jews worldwide. "When your personal security is undermined, you start to examine yourself," Hagoel explained. This introspection, he believes, strengthens Jewish and Zionist identity for both diaspora Jews and Israelis.
The World Zionist Organization has also been active in helping diaspora communities commemorate October 7th and the war's fallen. They have provided materials in various languages for hundreds of events globally, aiming to connect Jews abroad with Israeli memory. Hagoel also arranges for visiting Jewish delegations to tour the Gaza border communities affected by the massacre and visit national memorial sites like Mount Herzl, to understand the war's cost and support bereaved families.
Despite the ongoing threats of fear and antisemitism, Hagoel remains optimistic, emphasizing the strength of the Jewish people and their ability to grow from crises. He believes these challenges ultimately reinforce Jewish unity and resilience.
