People You Should Know: ZAKA

My parents recently returned from a trip to Israel. It was organized by our synagogue, and the Rabbi kept a diary of each day's events on the web. This passage in particular struck me as worthy of recognition this Saturday:

"Friday morning helped inspire us in anticipation of Shabbat in Jerusalem. We began the day with Yehuda Meshi Zahav, the founder of ZAKA. The organization is best known for treating the bodies of victims of terror with respect and helping to identify them after an attack. However they do so much more! They support the families of victims of terror and those affected by traffic accidents and suicide. Yehuda comes from the Haredi or ultra-orthodox community, yet he has found that all humanity is deserving of support and respect at these ultimate moments. His executive director, a secular woman, served as his translator. When he spoke, though most did not understand his own words, we could all feel his powerful commitment to Jewish traditions, service of others and his country, and human dignity. He has personally built an organization that spans the country of Israel and that helped in the attack in Taba, Egypt just as they had in Italy and in the synagogue bombings in Turkey. With pride, he said that while the name ZAKA originally stood for Zihui Korbanot Ason (Identifying the victims of terror attacks) it now stands for Z'man Keruv Achim (Time to bring brothers together). He was but one of the true heroes we met on this trip."

You can read these accounts for a description of what their job entails. ZAKA is often described as an organization of Orthodox Jews. Many are, but it's open to anyone from all sectors, religious, secular, men and women. They are first responders in the strongest sense of the term, on the scene to bring aid to the wounded, comfort to the dying, and dignity to the deceased [donations page]. May their names be blessed.