Shin Bet Chief's Father Criticizes State Memorial Day for Simchat Torah

Rabbi Yosef Zini, father of Shin Bet chief David Zini, has penned a sharp critique of the government's decision to establish a state memorial day for the Simchat Torah massacre. In a letter addressed to an educator, Rabbi Zini stated that the decision holds "no value" for "believing Jews." He argued that such a significant day of mourning should have been established in consultation with rabbinical leadership, including the Chief Rabbinate, which he considers the ultimate authority on matters of holidays and mourning.

Rabbi Zini also criticized the chosen date, noting that it falls on a day when supplications are not recited, making it unsuitable for a day of mourning. A central point of his argument was the perceived omission of days of thanksgiving for the "millions of miracles" that have occurred since Simchat Torah 5784. He suggested the decision was influenced by "groups clearly lacking faith."

Drawing parallels to Jewish history, Rabbi Zini cited the Chanukah victory over the Maccabees, which involved heavy casualties but is commemorated with a celebration of victory and thanksgiving, not mourning. He also noted that in Israel's past wars, no government has established a day of mourning, though military memorial ceremonies are held. The Rabbi contended that Jewish tradition does not designate separate mourning days for every historical tragedy, beyond the established days for the destruction of the Temples.

While acknowledging the pain of the Simchat Torah events, Rabbi Zini emphasized that the Jewish people's tradition is to focus on overcoming failures and celebrating resilience, not on mourning every disaster. He urged the educator to instead focus on faith, hope, and the anticipation of redemption in his teachings to students, viewing this as a fitting way to commemorate the victims.