Shavuot greetings from Peter Dutton
On behalf of the Coalition, I extend my warmest wishes to our more than 100,000 strong Australian Jewish community as you observe Shavuot.
Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton
The Feast of Weeks is a festival rich in history and profound in meaning. It marks the culmination of a seven-week journey that began at Passover.
Shavuot is not just a historical commemoration which links the Israelites freedom from slavery in Egypt with the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Shavuot is also a time to honour the gifts of freedom and law that have shaped the Jewish people. And a time to renew one’s commitment to live by the values and precepts enshrined in the Torah.
Hamas’ barbaric attack on Israel on October 7 – and the Iranian regime’s strikes on Israel on 13 April in conjunction with the terrorist groups it sponsors – will cast a shadow over this year’s Shavuot.
But the courageous Israeli military operation which recently saved the lives of four Israeli hostages provides hope – a human triumph and reminder of the strength of the Jewish spirit.
May Shavuot’s themes of freedom and justice continue to guide and reassure the people of Israel and Australia’s Jewish community in these difficult times.
Chag Sameach.
