Yom HaZikaron (Israeli Memorial Day)

Yom HaZikaron was set aside on the day before Yom HaAtzmaut as a time of memorial for soldiers who lost their lives fighting in the War of Independence and in other battles or wars.

In Israel, it is a solemn day in which all places of entertainment and many businesses are closed. Two-minute sirens are sounded throughout the nation, one in the evening marking the beginning of the holiday and one prior to a public national memorial ceremony.

Yom HaZikaron is a prescribed time to commemorate, honor and reflect on those who lost their lives in service to their country. Remembering the lost becomes especially meaningful if a family member served in the military.

Because Jewish festivals contain moments of remembrance and family, the modern holiday of Yom HaZikaron is a appropriate time to honor deceased family members as well. Lasting tributes such as contributions to charities, hospitals or hospices, synagogues or other organizations provide meaningful memorials for departed loved ones.