Community Unites in Mourning for Rabbi Schlanger After Tragic Bondi Beach Shooting

In a somber gathering, thousands of mourners have come together in Sydney to pay their respects to Rabbi Eli Schlanger, one of the victims of the devastating Bondi Beach shooting. This tragedy unfolded during a festive celebration for the first day of Hanukkah, claiming the lives of 15 individuals and sending shockwaves through the community.

A Day of Grief and Remembrance

Rabbi Schlanger, recognized affectionately as the “Bondi Rabbi,” played an instrumental role in organizing the festival. Having moved from the UK, he was a pillar of support for the local Jewish community. His wife welcomed their fifth child just two months prior to the incident, adding to the heartache felt by friends and family during this painful time.

During the emotional service, Rabbi Levi Wolff described Schlanger’s death as an “unspeakable loss” and highlighted his tireless dedication to spreading love and joy in the community. “Eli was taken from us while doing what he loved most,” he said, reflecting on Schlanger’s life of service and sacrifice.

Words of Love and Remembrance

Rabbi Yehoram Ulman, Schlanger’s father-in-law, shared a heartfelt tribute, expressing his deep affection for the beloved community leader. “He was my son, my friend, and my confidant,” Ulman told those gathered. “My greatest regret is that I did not tell him more often how much he was loved and appreciated.”

In a message of strength, Ulman urged the Jewish community not to retreat in fear after the tragedy. He emphasized the importance of continuing traditions, such as lighting the final candle of Hanukkah on Bondi Beach, which will see gathered rabbis come together in celebration of faith and resilience.

Further Funerals and Acts of Kindness

As the community processes this loss, more funerals are scheduled, including that of Rabbi Yaakov Levitan and 10-year-old Matilda, the youngest victim of the shooting. Matilda’s father spoke out, expressing gratitude to the first responders and bystanders who rushed to save his daughter during the chaos.

“I want to extend my deepest thanks to the woman who shielded my younger daughter, Summer, throughout those harrowing moments,” he said, acknowledging the bravery and kindness of others amid the horror of the incident.

Community and Political Response

The funeral was attended by numerous public figures, including former prime ministers and prominent community leaders, highlighting the wide-reaching impact of this tragedy. However, the absence of current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese drew scrutiny, prompting him to assert that he participates in all events he’s invited to, particularly those that bring closure to grieving families.

Albanese has faced criticism from the Jewish community regarding his administration’s approach to rising antisemitism, but he defended his actions, pointing to increased funding and policy changes aimed at promoting social cohesion and combatting hate speech. He also confirmed that charges have been filed against one of the suspects involved in the shooting, with detailed proceedings expected to follow as investigations continue.

A Tragic Milestone

This horrifying event marks the deadliest shooting in Australia since 1996 and has left a lasting mark on the nation. Among the casualties were two police officers, one of whom lost vision in one eye due to his injuries while bravely attempting to protect others during the attack. The other officer remains in critical condition, highlighting the heroism displayed that day.

The Bondi Beach shooting has cast a long shadow over the community, igniting discussions about safety, prevention, and the necessity for unity in the face of violence.