Solemn Remembrance in Israel

Yom Hazikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day, begins on Sunday night. Israel’s Independence Day follows immediately thereafter on Monday night. “Ma Avarech” (English translation: “How Shall I Bless Him”) is a song written by Rachel Shapira in memory of her classmate, Eldad Krook, who was killed during the six day war in 1967. The song is traditionally performed on Yom HaZikaron in honor of those who have fallen. The number now stands at 23,169. You’ll find a translation of the poem below.