The Juxtaposition of Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut

Today marks Yom Ha’atzmaut, Independence Day in Israel, coming on the heels of Yom Hazikaron, shorthand for Yom HaZikaron LeHalalei Ma’arakhot Yisrael ul’Nifge’ei Pe’ulot HaEivah, Memorial Day for the Fallen Soldiers of the Wars of Israel and Victims of Actions of Terrorism, which is commemorated the day immediately before Yom Ha’atzmaut.

This juxtaposition has a powerful effect. Whereas sometimes the grave sacrifices to be commemorated on the upcoming Memorial Day in the United States get lost in its association with the beginning of summer, barbecues, and the long weekend, in Israel, partly because the national memory is so fresh and partly because of its linkage to Yom Ha’atzmaut, Yom Hazikaron is a very solemn occasion. I still have memories as a six year old living in Israel of our car pulling over to the side of the road at the prescribed time, in response to the nationwide siren, everyone collectively observing the minute of silence, this being just one example of the solemnity of the day.

Of course, Yom Ha’atzmaut has the converse spirit, fireworks, dancing, and celebration being its hallmarks. The very real, fresh experience of these two national notes—loss and freedom—being intrinsically linked brings a gravitas to the days we can sometimes feel disconnected from here. Wishing everyone a Yom Ha’atzmaut Sameach (Happy Israeli Day of Independence) at a challenging time.