Chabad prepares for Passover celebrations on 6-month mark of Israel-Hamas war
Rabbi Yossi Eliav says this year at the Seder, it’s a mitzvah – or a good deed – to leave an empty chair at the table in honor of the hostages still being held in Gaza.
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The Jewish community of the Chabad at Clinton Hill and Pratt Institute is honoring sacred Jewish traditions ahead of Passover, praying for Israel and those who are still being held hostage in Gaza.
This year, the holiday comes approximately six months after Oct. 7, the day Hamas attacked Israel.
Rabbi Yossi Eliav says this year at the Seder, it’s a mitzvah – or a good deed – to leave an empty chair at the table in honor of the hostages still being held in Gaza.
"The mother of one of the hostages has asked this request that we should all fill a seat at the Seder in honor of her son who is still being held hostage from the nova festival and for all the other hostages who can't celebrate this year,” he said. “They're in Egypt, they're in slavery right now, they're stuck and we need to pray for their redemption."
Every year, Jews come together for a Seder to honor the Israelites and the fight they had to endure to get freedom from the Pharoh of Egypt. The Passover is a holiday full of symbolism - hence the Seder plate, matzah and Haggadah on every Jewish table around the world.
The Chabad is welcoming to Jews of all denominations. For those looking to join the Seder and Passover celebrations, click here.
