- September 11, 2024
- 3:46 pm
- Ukraine
Rabbi Moshe Reuven Azman, Chief Rabbi of Ukraine and Kyiv, shared a personal story on the Day of Remembrance of the Fallen Defenders of Ukraine, August 29, 2024.
He said that since the beginning of the full-scale war of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, trouble has knocked on the door of almost every Ukrainian – some have lost a loved one, some are struggling with injuries, and this pain has not bypassed his family either.
In 2002, Rabbi Azman and his wife adopted an 11-year-old orphan. His name was Anton Samborsky, but they gave him the Hebrew name Matatyahu (Motya) in honor of the heroic leader of the Maccabean revolt against the invading empire more than 2,200 years ago, the events that formed the basis for the holiday of Hanukkah.
Motya lived with the rabbi's family for about 10 years, and when he became an adult, he decided to live independently. He got married, and in May of this year, his daughter was born. But a week after the birth of the child, Motya was drafted into the army. After a quick course, the young fighter was immediately sent to the front lines.
The last time Rabbi Azman spoke to Motya was on July 17. And on July 24, during a battle, he went missing. His wife received an official document.
“On this Day of Remembrance of the Fallen Defenders of Ukraine, I pray for all the heroes who gave their lives for the freedom of their country. Their courage and self-sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Eternal glory to the Heroes who defended their homeland!” – Rabbi Moshe Reuven Assman
This text highlights the tragedy and depth of human loss caused by the war in Ukraine. Rabbi Azman’s personal story demonstrates how the scourge of war touches everyone, including spiritual leaders, and illustrates that even families dedicated to service are not immune to tragedy.
This is important because it reminds us that war affects everyone, regardless of their role or position in society, and shows that the memory of those who gave their lives for freedom must be preserved and honoured.
The story of Rabbi Moshe Reuven Azman is also important in the context of relations between Jews and Ukrainians, as it demonstrates the close ties and common suffering of these two peoples during the war.
The adoption of a Ukrainian boy by a Jewish family, who later became a defender of Ukraine, symbolizes the unity and solidarity between the Jewish and Ukrainian communities. This example emphasizes that, despite their different cultural and religious heritage, Jews and Ukrainians are united by a common struggle for freedom and independence of the country.
The memory of fallen heroes like Motya is important not only for Ukrainians, but also for the Jewish community, as it strengthens mutual understanding and maintains close ties between these peoples.
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