From the Liveblog of
Thursday, April 11, 2024
Nir Oz survivors return to kibbutz for Passover Seder, set places for hostages
Jessica Steinberg, The Times of Israel's culture and lifestyles editor, covers the Sabra scene from south to north and back to the center
Survivors and loved ones of those killed and kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz gather in the kibbutz’s dining hall, where one long table is set for the Nir Oz hostages, with packages of matzah, bottles of grape juice and Haggadah pamphlets next to each plate.
There are seats for preschooler Ariel Bibas, his baby brother, Kfir and their parents Shiri and Yarden, for murdered hostages Tamir Adar and Maya Goren, for Chaim Peri and all the other members who are missing.
The kibbutz is missing a quarter of its members — 51 killed on October 7 and 36 who are still held hostage.
Osnat Peri, wife of Chaim Peri, who saved his wife by confronting the terrorists in order to protect her, speaks first.
“When times were normal, we used to celebrate the Seder here, with decorated tables and walls,” says Osnat Peri. She recalls how the kibbutz would begin the Seder by reciting “Shibolim,” a poem written by another kibbutz member taken hostage, Amiram Cooper.
“This dining hall will be empty this year. No one will talk freedom because no one feels that way this year,” she says.
“We want to feel we have a country, a kibbutz, a life,” adds Peri. “Bring them home, bring them home for the holiday.”
