Tzohar conference explores Israel’s search for unity after Oct. 7

The Tzohar Annual Summer Conference, themed “For the Sake of Heaven and Earth,” convened on July 21 at Expo Tel Aviv, bringing together 2,500 religious, secular, and community leaders. The sold-out event explored Jewish identity, national resilience, and contemporary challenges facing Israeli society, particularly in the wake of the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre and ongoing war. A central theme was the spiritual search within secular Israeli society, with Rabbi David Stav noting surveys show growing numbers of Israelis identifying as “traditional.” Rabbi Tamir Granot, whose son was killed in October 2023, discussed Israel’s need to forge a shared identity, stating, “Israelis… must forge a shared identity and common purpose while respecting individual differences and accepting collective responsibility.” Discussions also covered the shaping of Israeli values, political divisions, and the importance of repairing internal rifts that preceded the war.