Day 21: Tisha B'Av

Bring Back Gilad Shalit

Today is the saddest day in the Jewish calendar. Three weeks ago, on the fast day known as the 17th of Tammuz, I couldn't help but think of Gilad Shalit, who is being held in captivity by enemies of the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Today, Tisha B'Av, the Ninth of Av, please join me in a campaign to focus our collective energy, thoughts and prayers on bringing about his freedom.

In your own way, whatever way that is, please put your mental and spiritual attention on bringing about his safe return--alive--to his family, his country and his people.

Tisha B'Av is a traditional day of mourning the loss of the first and second Temples in Jerusalem, the expulsion of Jews from Spain, the start of WWI which set the stage for WWII, and many other calamities that befell the Jewish people. When/if you fast, in addition to the traditions of the day, please also have in mind the safe return of a live and well Gilad Shalit.

The power of collective fast and prayer is believed to have saved the Jewish people from genocide during the time of Queen Esther.

Redeeming the captive is one of our most compelling missions as a people and as brethren on this planet. Years ago, our collective efforts brought Natan Sharansky out of bondage. Together, we can redeem Gilad Shalit.

Spread the word!

B'achdut--in unity,
Lisa