Behind the Scenes of Israel’s Torch-Lighting Ceremony:
Every year, IDF veterans, Israeli civilians, political officials, bereaved families, and senior military officials come together on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem for a torch-lighting ceremony, perhaps the most important annual ceremony in Israel. Soldiers and commanders from units across the IDF are chosen to participate in the national custom that marks the closure of the Israeli Memorial Day for the Fallen Soldiers of Israel and Victims of Terrorism, and the opening of Israel's Independence Day celebrations. We attended rehearsals for the ceremony and gathered information about the preparations for this highly anticipated event:
14.04.21
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It is a well-known Israeli tradition to watch the live broadcast of the torch-lighting ceremony on Mount Herzl. Thousands of families wait in front of their screens to watch as the nation commemorates the transition from Memorial Day to Independence Day––two consecutive days on the calendar. On Memorial Day, the State of Israel lowers its flag to half-mast in solidarity with those who fell defending their country. On the following day, the flag rises proudly, thanks to those who sacrificed their lives for the only Jewish state in the world. During the ceremony, a military parade of flag-bearers is held, senior officials deliver speeches, and twelve inspiring Israeli citizens are chosen to light a torch and tell their story.
"The torch-lighting ceremony is the main ceremony of [our] Independence Day celebrations," says the ceremony's deputy commander, Chief Warrant Officer Yoram Simchon. “The first part of the ceremony is the end of Memorial Day. We remind ourselves that we can celebrate the establishment of Israel only because of those who sacrificed their lives for the country. Then, around 8 o'clock, we will begin the 73rd Israeli Independence Day celebrations.”
The ceremony's deputy commander,
Chief Warrant Officer Yoram Simchon, during the rehearsals
Every year, the State of Israel chooses a special and relevant theme for the ceremony. This year, the ceremony’s theme is Israeli brotherhood. “According to the annual theme, the soldiers stand in formation and create shapes and symbols that are not revealed until the moment the broadcast begins,” tells the deputy commander. “The symbol I most connected with this year is a symbol of a house with the phrase ‘Israeli brotherhood’ in it. Because of Covid, we’ve all been home a lot this year, and this is perhaps the symbol that best describes the theme of the year.”
“Israeli Brotherhood” - אחווה ישראלית
“Even though it’s my fourth year leading this ceremony, the excitement is in full swing––not just mine, but everyone on our team.” Chief Warrant Officer Yoram, remarks, “I’m inviting everyone to watch the ceremony with us. It's not a ceremony, it’s THE ceremony. We wish you all a happy Independence Day.”
