An encounter with ‘teshuvah’

The author reflects on the Jewish High Holy Days, particularly the concept of "teshuvah" (repentance), amidst global judgments of Israel and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The article highlights a perceived moral inversion where the world judges Israel while often overlooking Jewish suffering, citing examples like the film "No Other Land" and international responses to "settler violence." The author emphasizes that "Palestinian suffering does not erase Jewish suffering. Jewish suffering does not erase Palestinian suffering," advocating for a single moral standard where all victims are recognized.

• The author calls for self-reflection within the Jewish community, urging them to remember their history, speak their whole story, and decide their future.
• It is argued that while repentance for injustice and violence is necessary, repentance for returning to their ancestral homeland is not.
• The piece concludes by asserting that the focus should be on building a just and responsible nation now that Jews are home, rather than repenting for their return.