Tisha Be’Av: They Destroy - We Build

By Zanna Linskaia

Every year we commemorate Tisha Be’Av, as a National day of mourning

for the destruction of the First and Second Temples. To begin our

observance, we read “Eicha”, the book of Lamentations which reflects

on one of the saddest days in the Jewish history with tragedies and

sacrifice. What lessons can we learn from this suffering?

The 30 minutes documentary - “Tisha Be’Av: They Destroy. We Build”,

produced by Israeli filmmaker Aharon Meudlowitz, delivers a powerful

and timely message. It tells the story of courage — of brave IDF soldiers

running into danger in response to the horrors of October 7, 2023, and

the devastation that followed Israel’s disengagement from parts of

Judea and Samaria.

More than a history lesson, this film is a call for hope and peace,

emphasizing the importance of a united Jewish state and the enduring

relevance of Zionism as a national movement. Through heartfelt and

thoughtful interviews it explores how to strengthen ties between Israel

and the Jewish diaspora, and draws powerful parallels between ancient

tragedies of Samaria and Judea and the modern challenges facing Israel

today.

The film is featuring long-time residents of Judea and Samaria, and

whose ancestors had owned and built this land - Nadia Matar, Sharon

Katz, Jeremy Gimpel, Aryeh Routtenberg and the Rabbis - Pesach

Wolicki, Tuly Weisz and Shlomo Katz –whose deep love for the land

reflects generations of connection and dedication.

Interviews with them show us the deep connection and feeling they have

to so called “occupied territories”, their love and devotion to the ancient

source of Jewish prophecy. Aryeh Routtenberg, the historian and the

teacher, standing near the huge oak tree, says: “My grandparents were

pioneers here over a 100 years ago, and my parents planted this old tree

as a symbol of life. The redemption of the world is not only for Jews, but

also for mankind”.

The documentary takes viewers on a journey through the biblical

heartland –from the hills of Judea and Samaria to the historic yard of

King David –immersing us in the atmosphere of the ancient Jewish

kingdom.

The film includes deeply emotional and disturbing footage released by

families of hostages, showing Hamas militants abducting Israeli women

on October 7.

“Since the October massacre, it has felt like Tisha Be’Av. We don’t feel

safe anywhere”, - says Rabbi Tuly Weisz and continues: “Antisemitism

is out of control in Europe, USA and North America. Zionism became a

dirty word, and Israel was at the brink of civil war. The younger Jewish

generation in the diaspora no longer feels the same connection to Israel

as their parents and grandparents. We must bring the Zionist movement

back on track and rekindle support amount our youth!”.

At the end of the film the most touching revelation was made by Rabbi

Shlomo Katz - theologist, philosopher and musician, who made Aliyah

from USA to live here:

“What is our role now? We cannot be spectators because we part of

yesterday, today and tomorrow. Every nation has its own song. Harmony

comes together, and it will be the greatest symphony in the world. It’s

not just time to sit quietly. It’s time to stand up, unite and build our

land”.

It cannot be said better.

Tisha B'Av: 'They Destroy. We Build'