[HANASHIR:14310] Re: Another Hatikvah question

[sholom <sholom...>]

> Another question about this song...
>
> In my work as a religious school teacher, songleader and music
> specialist, I  have lately been questioned by my older students (middle
> and high school age)  about the "relevance" of singing Hatikvah in light
> of current events. As one  of my seventh-graders put it, "If I were an
> Arab member of the Knesset and  had to stand while the song was being
> sung at the opening of session, I'm not  sure HOW I'd feel. It sure
> doesn't speak to the Israeli-Arab's view of  things."

If your seventh grade student is an Arab, he might have a point.

But, presuming he is Jewish -- the song reflects the 2000 year old Jewish
dream to return and be free in the land.

If anything I'd think "current events" make it more relevant.  You can't
be really "free" when there are five terror attacks in two days.

-- Sholom





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