The first of the funerals for victims of the Bondi Beach shooting has taken place in Sydney, with thousands gathering to mourn Rabbi Eli Schlanger.
He was among 15 people killed when two gunmen opened fire on a festival marking the first day of Hanukkah. Australia's prime minister stated that the attackers appear to have been inspired by the Islamic State group.
Rabbi Schlanger, known as the Bondi Rabbi and instrumental in organizing the event, was born in the UK. His wife gave birth to their fifth child just two months ago.
Opening the service, Rabbi Levi Wolff referred to Schlanger's death as an unspeakable loss for the community, the Chabad of Bondi, and the entire Jewish nation.
“Eli was ripped away from us, doing what he loved best,” he expressed. “Spreading love and joy and caring for his people with endless self-sacrifice in his life and in his death, he towered above as one of the highest and holiest souls.”
Rabbi Schlanger was remembered by his father-in-law as a beloved figure. The 41-year-old was described as my son, my friend, my confidant, by Rabbi Yehoram Ulman.
Rabbi Ulman reflected on his relationship with Schlanger, stating, “My biggest regret was to tell Eli more often how much we love him... how proud we are of him.”
He called upon Jewish people to stand together following the attack and announced a continuation of a 31-year-old tradition to light the final candle on Bondi Beach.
Several prominent figures, including opposition leader Sussan Ley and former prime minister Scott Morrison, attended Schlanger's funeral. Meanwhile, criticism has been directed at Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for what some perceive as insufficient action against antisemitism.
In the aftermath of the attack, the community processes a profound sense of loss while leaders emphasize the importance of unity and resilience against hate.
The attack marked the deadliest shooting in Australia since 1996, leading to calls for enhanced security and social cohesion measures as the community navigates this tragic chapter.
