The Empty Shabbat Table
On Friday 27 October, just 3 weeks after the devastating attacks in Israel on 7 October we opened The Empty Shabbat Table. Instead of the usual warmth and joy that Shabbat brings, this installation stood at the centre of our space, as a tribute to those who could not be with us.
Places were laid for all of the hostages, and members of the public were encouraged to come together to witness their names, and remember them as they went home to eat at their own Shabbat table. Traditionally, Shabbat is a time for gathering, families and friends coming together over challah and candlelight, sharing stories, laughter, and song. But in the wake of tragedy, we chose to mark the absence. The empty seats represented the lives taken too soon, the families torn apart, and the collective mourning of a global Jewish community.
At the opening of the Empty Shabbat Table we brought together members of the media, from across the world, so that millions could witness the grief that our community was feeling. Speakers at the event included Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis and Noam Sagi, who’s mother Ada was kidnapped from kibbutz Nir Oz.
“As you look out at these tables and these chairs right now, this is our statement that we are, we miss every single one of those captives”
Photos by Blake Ezra Photography