‘An Unspeakable Loss’: Funeral Takes Place for Rabbi Killed in Bondi Shooting
Thousands of mourners gathered in Sydney for the poignant funeral of Rabbi Eli Schlanger, the first victim memorialized following the heartbreaking shooting at Bondi Beach. Rabbi Schlanger was one of 15 individuals tragically killed when two gunmen opened fire during a festival celebrating the first night of Hanukkah. Initial reports suggest that the attackers may have been influenced by the Islamic State (IS) group.
Rabbi Schlanger’s Legacy
Known affectionately as the Bondi Rabbi, Schlanger dedicated his life to serving the community. Born in the UK, he celebrated the arrival of his fifth child just two months before his untimely death. Rabbi Levi Wolff, who led the funeral service, described Schlanger’s passing as an unspeakable loss not just for the Chabad of Bondi but for the entire Jewish community.
– Rabbi Wolff emphasized Schlanger’s remarkable character, stating he stood out as one of the highest and holiest souls dedicated to spreading love, joy, and steadfast support to everyone around him.
– Rabbi Yehoram Ulman, Schlanger’s father-in-law, expressed heartfelt sentiments, stating, Eli was ripped away from us, doing what he loved best. He emphasized the importance of love and urged the community not to retreat in fear but to stand united.
Community Resilience and Remembrance
On the final night of Hanukkah, the community plans to honor Rabbi Schlanger by continuing a cherished tradition of lighting the last candle on Bondi Beach. All the rabbis together, under the banner of our Chabad house of Bondi, to which Eli dedicated his life, will gather at Bondi Beach, Rabbi Ulman proclaimed.
In the coming days, funerals for other victims, including Rabbi Yaakov Levitan and 10-year-old Matilda, are scheduled. Matilda’s father expressed gratitude to the lifesavers, bystanders, and police officers who attempted to save his daughter’s life, particularly acknowledging a woman who comforted their younger daughter during the chaos.
Government Response to Tragedy
Notable figures, including Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, attended Rabbi Schlanger’s funeral. However, the absence of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese raised eyebrows, prompting him to clarify his willingness to partake in such events. The Jewish community has voiced concerns regarding the government’s handling of antisemitism. In a recent statement, Prime Minister Albanese defended his administration’s efforts to combat hate, including the appointment of the country’s first antisemitism envoy and enhancements to hate speech regulations.
Legal Actions Following the Attack
Naveed Akram, one of the suspects, faces 59 charges, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. His father, Sajid Akram, was also killed during the incident. This attack marks Australia’s deadliest shooting since 1996, with two police officers severely injured; one has already lost vision in one eye.
As the community grapples with this tragic loss, the memorial for Rabbi Schlanger stands not only as a farewell but also as an enduring reminder of resilience, love, and the strength found in unity amid unspeakable grief.