Jews in Thane hold special prayer for war-hit Israel

THANE: The close-knit Jewish community staying in Thane has started special prayer sessions at their respective homes for peace and safety of their brethren in war-struck Israel, said members on Thursday.
Few community members who assembled at the Shaar Hashamaim-Gate of Heaven Synagogue located in the dense Tembhi naka area of the city said they preferred to abstain from reacting publicly on the issue but instead have chosen to pray for Israel at homes following instructions from their religious leaders.
"We are shocked at the attacks which happened when Israel was still celebrating Shabbath. Though we are deeply stressed, we don't intend to show off our angst and prefer to pray for peace and tranquillity. We have started special prayers, including Tehillim- reading of the psalms of David at our homes every afternoon following directions from the rabbi," said Ezra Moses, former secretary at the Thane synagogue who is also a social activist.
Moses said a special community prayer session was held Thursday, where around 30 members assembled at the lone synagogue in Thane district. A reading of the Eliyahooh Hannabi followed by prayers and a token of our appreciation for soldiers fighting for their country was held. The nearly three-hour-long session ended Thursday evening after a customary lunch.
It may be noted that Thane has the second largest number of Jew community after Mumbai in the metropolitan region. The community members say they feel safe here and claim to have received adequate police protection.
"We have received many calls and messages extending support from our non-Jewish friends since the last few days," Moses told TOI.