What Sense Can Be Made of the Meron Tragedy?
The Lag B’Omer catastrophe on Mount Meron has been blamed on politicians, rabbis, infrastructure, religious culture, and more. But can the search for causes do anything to alleviate the spiritual confusion caused by senseless tragedy?
There is no reason and no justification for their deaths. There is no good that came from their deaths. No lesson for the collective Jewish people. No celestial or cosmic redemption to be earned from their loss. They should be alive. We mourn, along with their families and the entire House of Israel.
No, there are no real answers to life’s sorrows, pains and losses. Some will find their solace in ensuring that accidents like this never happen again, through proper government oversight, appropriate facilities, and better planning. Though these measures are vital, they will not heal the wounds of the families who lost loved ones. That will only come from within.
It is easier to feel guilty than to feel helpless. If we believe that acting a certain way will protect us — that God will not afflict us if we only keep kosher or observe the Shabbat or act kindly — then whatever misfortune has befallen us might be averted next time.
But sadly, there are no guarantees.