Among the victims of the tragic antisemitic mass shooting in Bondi was a respected rabbi, deeply involved in organizing a significant Hanukkah celebration. The devastating attack claimed the life of Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who was among the 16 people killed during the event.

Rabbi Schlanger, 41, was identified by the official X account of the Hasidic Jewish movement, Chabad, as well as by his cousin, Zalman Lewis, on Instagram. Schlanger served as an assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi, contributing significantly to the community and its activities.

He played a crucial role in organizing the “Chanukah by the Sea” event, which was tragically targeted by two gunmen on the very first day of Hanukkah. The community gathered for this joyous occasion, only to be met with unimaginable violence.

In a poignant message shared by the Chabad.org account, Rabbi Schlanger’s words resonated with strength and resilience. He emphasized that in the face of such darkness, the response should be to “be more Jewish, act more Jewish, and appear more Jewish.” His words serve as a call to uphold and celebrate Jewish identity, even in the most challenging times.

“The rabbi said in the face of darkness, the way forward is to ‘be more Jewish, act more Jewish, and appear more Jewish’,” the post read.

Lewis said his cousin was “truly an incredible guy”.

Alex Ryvchin, of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, told 9News overnight he left behind a wife and young children.

“One of my colleagues was there and he’s wounded and he’s in hospital at the moment. I’ve just heard that again.

“A friend has lost his 12 year old daughter, who succumbed to her wounds in hospital.”

Chabad is an international movement of ultra-Orthodox Judaism known for its public candle lightings in communities across the world.

Chabad.org also named two other victims: Reuven Morrison, a member of the Chabad community; and Alex Kleytman, a Holocaust survivor.

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