Israel commemorates Holocaust Remembrance Day annually on the 27th of Nisan, honoring the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust. This year, the observance takes place on the 26th of Nisan instead of the 27th, as the original date falls on a Friday. To respect the sanctity of the Sabbath, the commemoration is moved.
The day begins in the evening with a state ceremony at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem. Leaders deliver speeches, six torches shine in memory of the victims, and prayers are recited. The next morning, a two-minute siren sounds across the country. During this time, daily life pauses as people stand in silence to honor the victims.
Various events take place nationwide. Schools hold memorial services, communities gather for reflection, and television networks broadcast documentaries to educate the public. These activities not only preserve history but also encourage awareness in the fight against anti-Semitism and racism.
Holocaust Remembrance Day serves as a national moment of unity. It reminds people of the past while emphasizing the importance of building a better future.
Hebrew Vocabulary List:
| עברית | English | Transliteration |
|---|---|---|
| יום השואה | Holocaust Remembrance Day | Yom HaShoah |
| זיכרון | Remembrance | Zikaron |
| ניצולי שואה | Holocaust survivors | Nitzolei Shoah |
| צפירה | Siren | Tzifira |
| ששת המיליונים | The six million | Sheshet HaMillionim |
| יד ושם | Yad Vashem | Yad Vashem |
| תפילות זיכרון | Memorial prayers | Tefilot Zikaron |
| גזענות | Racism | Gizanut |
| חשבון נפש | Reflection | Cheshbon Nefesh |
| אחדות | Unity | Achdut |