The Resilience of the Jewish Spirit: A Passover Reflection by Steve Rosenberg

As the festival of Passover approaches, Jewish communities around the world prepare to commemorate the Exodus from Egypt, a foundational event that symbolizes liberation and freedom. Yet, underlying the joyous celebration of this holiday is a narrative of resilience—the resilience of the Jewish spirit that has endured centuries of persecution, exile, and adversity. Often called antisemitism, this hatred is rampant this year as Passover approaches – not just in Israel with constant attacks from terrorist enemies, but throughout the Diaspora.

The story of the Exodus is one of triumph over oppression. The Israelites, enslaved in Egypt, were liberated by the hand of G-d and led to freedom by Moses. This narrative has served as a source of strength and inspiration for Jews throughout history, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, liberation and redemption are possible. Today as we look out the window, read the news, and see first-hand what Jew hatred looks like, we must continue to believe that good will always overcome evil.

The strength of the Jewish people is not limited to the story of the Exodus. Throughout history, Jews have faced countless challenges—from the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem to the horrors of the Holocaust and most recently on October 7th—and yet, we have persevered. This resilience is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and culture, which emphasizes the importance of faith, community, and the preservation of heritage.

One of the key themes of Passover is the concept of "leaving Egypt," which symbolizes breaking free from the bonds of oppression and embracing a new beginning. This theme is particularly poignant for Jews, who have often found themselves in situations where they have had to metaphorically "leave Egypt" in order to survive and thrive. Today young people on college campuses are trying to “leave Egypt” almost daily.

The resilience of the Jewish spirit can be seen in the way that Jewish communities have rebuilt and flourished in the aftermath of tragedy. After the Holocaust, for example, Jewish communities around the world came together to support one another and to rebuild their lives. In fact, an entire nation built on Zionistic values was born – Israel. Today, there are thriving Jewish communities in countries around the world, a testament to the resoluteness and strength of the Jewish people.

Passover is also a time to reflect on the endurance of the Jewish faith itself. Despite centuries of persecution and attempts to extinguish it, Judaism has survived and thrived. This resilience is due in large part to the dedication of generations of Jews who have passed down their faith and traditions from one generation to the next.

In many ways, the story of Passover is a story of toughness. It is a story of a people who have endured hardship and oppression yet have emerged stronger and more determined than ever. As Jews around the world gather to celebrate Passover this year, they will be celebrating not just their freedom, but also their resilience—their ability to overcome adversity and to continue the rich and vibrant tradition of their ancestors. We will also continue to pray for the families who lost loved ones on October 7th and for the soldiers fighting for Israel’s continued sovereignty and for Jews across the globe.

As we reflect on the strength of the Jewish spirit this Passover, let us also remember that the story of Passover is not just a story of the past—it is a story that continues to unfold in the lives of Jews around the world today. It is a story of hope, of perseverance, and of the enduring power of the human spirit.

This year while we gather around the Seder table, let us take a moment to reflect on the spirit and fortitude of the Jewish people, and let us draw strength from their example as we face the challenges of our own lives. And let us also remember that, like the Israelites of old, we too have the power to overcome adversity and to create a better future for ourselves and for generations to come. United we stand, divided we fail.

Steve Rosenberg is the Principal of the TeamGSD. He is also the author of the book, Make Bold Things Happen: Inspirational Stories From Sports, Business And Life.