Jewish National Fund-USA’s Global Conference for Israel brought together a global community of Zionist advocates, thought leaders and educators for a transformative event celebrating the resilience of the Jewish people and their unwavering connection to Israel. The conference featured deeply moving sessions on the challenges facing the Jewish and pro-Israel communities and the steps necessary to secure its future.
One of the most impactful sessions of the conference highlighted the wisdom of Rabbi David Wolpe, the Max Webb Emeritus Rabbi of Sinai Temple in Los Angeles—senior adviser, celebrated author and one of the world’s most influential Jewish voices. He shared a deeply personal and historical perspective on Jewish resilience, the challenges of modern antisemitism and the power of unity.
Wolpe began his remarks by addressing the deep-seated nature of antisemitism and its evolution throughout history. “The deepest root of antisemitism is not about Jews,” he said. “It is about human nature—the distrust of the ‘other.’ Jews, for most of history, have been that ‘other,’ refusing to assimilate and maintaining our identity even in the face of immense pressure. That courage is what has kept us alive.”
He reflected on the historical and theological animosity towards Jews, emphasizing the need for gratitude in the face of adversity. “Every morning, the first words we say are Modeh ani—‘I am grateful.’ If you are sitting here today, Jewish or not, you are among the 99.9% luckiest people to have ever lived,” he said. “Our tradition teaches us that even when we face destruction, we can preserve a blessing. The oldest bit of Torah ever found, pulled from the ashes of Jerusalem, was a blessing of peace. This is who we are.”
Wolpe emphasized that Jewish history is a testament to extraordinary resilience. “When you look at Jewish history, it is astonishing, unprecedented, and literally unbelievable that we should still be here,” he remarked. “If we were going to disappear, we could have done it a thousand times. But that’s not who we are.”
Addressing the audience directly, he urged them to embrace both courage and humility. “Courage is indispensable for Jews, but so is humility. The ability to listen, to recognize that you are not the be-all and end-all, is a critical virtue. Respect for others, even in disagreement, strengthens us.”
Wolpe also spoke about the critical relationship between Israel and the Diaspora, stating, “If you think Israel isn’t central to Jewish tradition, read the Bible, look at a prayer book or finish a Passover seder. Israel transforms the consciousness of being a Jew in America. We have a right to live here, but only if we fight for the land.”
The session also explored how the next generation of Jews can connect with their heritage. Wolpe emphasized the importance of exposing young people to Israel, saying, “If I could take a Jewish child to only one place, it wouldn’t be Auschwitz or Warsaw. It would be Tel Aviv. They need to see not just what was done to the Jews, but what the Jews have done.”
He concluded by stressing the importance of mentorship and example-setting. “Young people need to see older generations excited and animated by Judaism,” said Wolpe. “They may not see it now, but if it’s ‘on their heart,’ as the Kotzker Rebbe taught, the day may come when it enters their heart.”
Jewish National Fund-USA connects and inspires rabbis across the nation through its Rabbis for Israel initiative. To become a Rabbi for Israel, visit: jnf.org/rabbis.
