Each of our Shabbat’s and holidays together, we have paused our service and recited the prayer “ahainu” (Our Brothers). A simple prayer asking G1d to free those held captive and let that release come soon. We’ve all seen or heard the news of a ceasefire in Gaza. And with that news, the release of our brothers in Israel who have been held captive and hostage. There are more details to resolve and more talks to be had. But on this holiday of Sukkot, our time of happiness, our joy is increased at the news of calm, of a ceasefire and of those held hostage coming home soon. My own heart is filled with joy of them coming home. And I shed a tear of sadness at the death and destruction that has occured in the past 2 years. May this be the time that we find peace with our cousins.

The blessing for the release of those held hostage is said every morning: ברוך אתה יהוה, אלהינו מלך העולם מתיר מסורים-Praised are you G1d, ruler of the universe who frees the bound.

Rabbi Ron