Resilience in the face of adversity

Despite the re-establishment of the community, Jewish life in Hamburg has faced ongoing challenges. While estimates suggest there may be between 5,000 and 8,000 Jews living in the city, not all are official members of the community. The reason? Membership in the Jewish community comes with an added tax, making it less appealing, particularly to those with higher incomes. However, in light of recent events, community leaders emphasize the importance of solidarity, of standing together to ensure Jewish continuity and influence within Hamburg and Europe.

One of the most significant projects undertaken by the Jewish community of Hamburg is the rebuilding of the grand synagogue that once stood proudly in the heart of the city. This project, estimated to cost between €220 million and €230 million, is not merely about constructing a place of worship. It is a statement.

Rabbi Bistritzky explains the importance of the synagogue: "The Bornplatz Synagogue was one of the largest synagogues in Europe before the war. It was built in 1906 and destroyed during Kristallnacht. With the support of the Hamburg and German governments, we are planning to rebuild it. The exterior will look the same, a grand and beautiful building, but the interior will be reimagined. Instead of 1,200 seats, we will have 500, along with an extended school and kindergarten, a large hall for activities, and a space for events such as the Passover Seder, which we currently hold in hotels. This project will allow us to do everything in-house, strengthening Jewish life in Hamburg."

By reconstructing the grand synagogue in its original location—a prominent and bustling part of the city—the Jewish community is sending a clear message: "We are here. We belong. And we will not be hidden." The new synagogue will not only serve as a place of worship but will also house offices, a youth center, and an educational hub. Plans include ensuring that every schoolchild in Hamburg visits the synagogue to learn about Judaism, strengthening Jewish identity while fostering understanding among non-Jewish residents.

Stricharz noted, "Since October 7, we have seen a sharp increase in hostility towards Jews. Jewish students hesitate to reveal their identity, and public displays of Jewish symbols often invite aggression. Public demonstrations against Israel have made many Jews feel unsafe, reinforcing their tendency to hide their identities rather than risk confrontation."

A particularly troubling example was a German court ruling that deemed the act of throwing Molotov cocktails at a synagogue as "political expression against Israel" rather than an antisemitic attack. Such interpretations highlight the challenge of explaining that anti-Zionism often masks deeper antisemitic sentiments. Stricharz emphasized that for Jews, Israel is a core part of their identity—prayers for Israel are an integral part of Jewish religious services worldwide. Therefore, attacks on Israel, its symbols, and its supporters are, by extension, attacks on Jewish identity itself.

Germany has taken relatively strong measures against anti-Israel demonstrations compared to other European nations, but Jewish leaders stress the need for constant vigilance. Rabbi Bistritzky adds: "I personally walk in the city everywhere the way I am. Most reactions in the city center of Hamburg are positive, but unfortunately, since October 7, I have experienced people screaming ‘Free Palestine’ and other hostile reactions related to the war in Israel."

Despite these challenges, the Jewish community in Hamburg remains well-protected. Both the German government and internal community security teams provide robust protection for Jewish institutions, ensuring that within the compounds of the Jewish community, members feel safe. However, concerns arise when Jews visibly express their identity in public spaces, particularly on public transportation or in unfamiliar neighborhoods. While most interactions are neutral or even positive, incidents of hostility are not uncommon.

Rabbi Bistritzky notes that since October 7, many Jewish children in non-Jewish schools have faced hostility, prompting their parents to consider transferring them to the Jewish school. "Our hope is that the Bornplatz Synagogue will be the beacon of Jewish life in Hamburg. It will provide security, a sense of belonging, and a visible statement that we are here to stay. Many Jewish families are now looking for a strong and stable community, and Hamburg is on their list."

The future of Jewish life in Hamburg was tied to the success of this synagogue. "This synagogue, which was once a proud and grand part of Jewish life in Hamburg, will stand again. It will give Jews a sense of security, pride, and a place to belong," Rabbi Bistritzky states. "It will be a strong sign that we are here, that we are supported, and that Jewish life in Hamburg is thriving."

The Jewish community of Hamburg faces an ongoing struggle to maintain its presence and strengthen its identity in the face of adversity. Yet, with projects like the rebuilding of the grand synagogue, the expansion of its educational institutions, and a strong stance against antisemitism, the community is determined to not only survive but to thrive. The vision is clear: a proud, visible Jewish presence in Hamburg that stands firm against historical tragedies and contemporary challenges alike.