In brief
With Passover 2025 approaching, many Israelis find the joy of the holiday overshadowed by the uncertainty and concern surrounding the hostages held in Gaza. Families reflect on the symbolism of liberation while facing heartache and absent loved ones.
In the lead-up to Passover, a time historically celebrated for the liberation of the Israelites from slavery, many Israelis are faced with a solemn reminder of the unresolved fate of hostages being held by Palestinian militants in Gaza. Yona Schnitzer, a marketing writer residing in Tel Aviv, shared that last year's Seder included a heartfelt prayer for the hostages. However, with no resolution by the current Passover, he expresses a troubling normalization of such captivity, finding it both surreal and heartbreaking.As families prepare to observe this weeklong Jewish festival that commemorates freedom, the reality of the hostages' plight casts a lingering shadow. For many, the customary joy is replaced with sorrow over their absence. Orly Gavishi-Sotto, a college administrator from northern Israel, articulated this sentiment, stating, “We will mark the holiday. We won’t celebrate it,” reflecting that true celebration is tied to the safe return of their loved ones.In a poignant gesture, Gavishi-Sotto plans to place an empty chair at the Seder table, a powerful symbol representing those who cannot gather with their families during this significant time. This tradition speaks volumes about the strong emotions surrounding the holiday amid ongoing conflict and raises awareness of the personal tragedies unfolding alongside the traditional narratives of liberation and hope.
