On October 7, 2023 Edan Alexander, an Israeli-American lone soldier who left his family in Tenafly to be in the Israeli Defense Force (IDF), was taken into Gaza, becoming a hostage of Hamas’s ongoing cruelty. For over 400 days, he has likely been beaten and tormented, both mentally and physically. In a recent video of Edan, sent out to the world by Hamas in early December, he showcased his bravery, and as he spoke he spread hope to all for his quick return. 

Unfortunately, this would be his second year missing both his birthday and Hanukkah with his family. To honor his tragic absence, on December 29, his birthday, many of the communities in New Jersey gathered at the Chabad in Tenafly to light the fifth candle of Hanukkah in his name. Before the lighting,  many prayers were spoken in hope for the return of the hostages and the protection of soldiers fighting everyday for their country.

The fifth night of the holiday is believed to be an important one. The candle being lit brightens the rest of the menorah spreading the miracles from one side to the next. Edan is symbolized as this light, though currently standing alone, he stands tall and brightens the life of many people. 

Many mentioned in the ceremony, that Edan is the light of every single room that he enters, every single person that he meets he touches their soul in a special way that is inexplicable. The memories he made with people thrive in the idea that there are many more to come as soon as he is back.

The town of Tenafly is ready to have him back! Yael Alexander (his mother) wants him home; Adi Alexander (his father) wants him home; Mika and Roy Alexander (his siblings) want him home; all of New Jersey wants him home. 

At the end of the prayers, the idea and hope that the sign in downtown Tenafly will be changed from a kidnapped sign to a welcome home sign was brought up. This needs to be something that happens soon because with a miracle Edan can and will come home.

Edan has been gone long enough without seeing his friends and family; before next year, he needs to be back home in order to celebrate his birthday with his friends, light a candle of the menorah for Hanukkah, and make so many more memories in his life.

To Edan: 

We hope and pray that you come home soon, Tenafly has been your home for many years and will always be. We are all waiting for you!