By Josh Taff and Rabbi Reuven Taff
Over the last weeks, we have been deeply shaken by the devastating fires in Los Angeles. The loss of life, the destruction of homes and cherished memories, and the erosion of our sense of security weigh heavily on our hearts. In moments like these, we may feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenges before us. Yet, within the Jewish tradition, we are reminded that even in the darkest times, hope remains our guiding light.
The prophet Zechariah declares: “Return to your stronghold, O prisoners of hope” (Zechariah 9:12). This powerful phrase teaches us that, no matter how dire the situation, we are never fully captive to despair. Instead, we are bound by our faith and tradition to a vision of repair, renewal, and resilience.
Hope, in Judaism, is not passive. It is an active response to adversity—a call to rebuild, to support one another, and to envision a future where healing is possible. As we recite each morning in the Modeh Ani prayer, we thank God for the gift of another day, affirming the idea that renewal is possible for each of us, and for the world.
In this spirit, let us come together to offer comfort to those who have lost loved ones, to support those rebuilding their lives, and to extend gratitude to the firefighters and first responders who embody courage and compassion.
May the words of King David in Psalm 30 inspire us: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” Though the path ahead may be long, we hold fast to the hope that morning will come, bringing light, healing, and the strength to rebuild.
Josh Taff is Director of Community Relations for ETTA, a leading nonprofit providing services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Reuven Taff is Rabbi Emeritus of the Mosaic Law Congregation in Sacramento, CA.