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Someone Must Bury Them
Before you view the following video, you might want to read about the role of the Chevra Kadish, the people who are dedicated to handling the remains of those who have died. Unfortunately, October 7 presented new, horrible challenges to those who do this honorable work. Caroline Glick invited one of the members to speak about her experience. Although her account is graphic, there are no photographs. She ordinarily would not speak about her work, but she is so appalled at the denials about those massacred that she felt compelled to speak out. I was so impressed with her dedication, commitment, and respect for those she tended to, as did her husband.
I believe the woman is an angel.
Following the video are the duties of the Chevra Kadish. I hope you will come away admiring these people and being humbled by their devotion.
An article in the Chabad library describes the duties of the Chevra Kadish.
Here is my own understanding of their roles.
The organization is comprised mostly of volunteers who are carefully trained in their roles. In the video Avigail Gimpel repeatedly stressed the importance of showing respect for those they tended:
Bestowing a proper Jewish burial upon a fellow Jew is considered a sacred duty and a profound act of kindness. In Europe of yesteryear, it was an honor to be a member of the Chevra Kadisha, and great Torah scholars and communal leaders were often admitted to this society as a mark of distinction. Today as well, membership in the Chevra Kadisha reflects noble character and is viewed as a badge of honor.
The organization also has men tend to men and women to women. In one heartbreaking story, Avigail said there were times when the burned bodies were given to them as ashes in containers. Although the assistance of pathologists, archaeologists and laboratory technicians were engaged, how does one make sure that the entire body, which is required by Jewish law, is included?
These are admirable, dedicated people.
Published in Islamist Terrorism
I suspect that much of Avigail’s description of what she encountered won’t be new to many of you. But her first-hand sharing reminds us that there are many, many more people affected by these atrocities than we see at first glance. Although I refuse to view any of the videos taken by Hamas or others, I still appreciate the opportunity to bear witness in one way or another.
I think everyone involved in the dignified treatment of remains is to be profusely thanked. It is a task that most cannot/will not do. They are to be blessed.
Saw the video already. Thank you @susanquinn for posting it on Ricochet
May every single one of those Hamas terrorist who actually participated meet their just end. I don’t think I’ve ever come across this level of inhumanity other than in history books.
Thanks, aardo. I’ll bet you follow Caroline Glick, too.
I am thankful for her work and that you highlighted it, Susan.
It is really hard for me to hear about the horrors of October 7. The suffering of the victims, especially the children, is unbearable. What makes the horrors even worse, is that the torturers delighted in what they did to the victims. They broadcast their cruelty on social media in triumph. After such barbarity, a clear, unequivocal condemnation in the strongest terms should be easy and yet thousands march supporting Hamas in our cities. They never marched for the victims. This is such a confusing and maddening time.
I hope others listen because these stories must be told and remembered. This is important.
Thanks, John. I just remembered something I forgot to mention in my narrative (although it’s in the video.) Hamas stole all the jewelry of their victims. Not one person had any jewelry on them. Not one. Brings back memories of the Nazis.
Yup!🙂