By Rabbi Moshe Yosef Cohen, Sanhedrin Initiative Advisor, Golan Heights, Israel
The recent conflict has exacted a heavy toll on Israel, with 458 days of hostilities resulting in the loss of 825 soldiers, 913 civilians, and 76 police officers.
Amidst these sacrifices, reports have emerged of a potential humanitarian deal involving the release of 34 hostages by Hamas.
However, the authenticity of this list remains unverified, and uncertainties persist regarding the status of these individuals.
This situation underscores a critical juncture for Israel:
1. Existential Threats:
The ongoing conflict and international pressures pose significant challenges to Israel's sovereignty and security which need to be addressed without fear of mankind and only fear of heaven.
2. Decisive Action:
To ensure national survival, Israel must adopt a stance of strength, prioritizing self-defense and national interests over external opinions.
3. Cultural Identity:
A shift from secularism towards embracing our unique heritage is essential for national Resilience, as Judaism holds all the characteristics of historical victory in the history of Israel.
The teachings of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook and Rabbi Meir Kahane offer profound insights into these challenges.
Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook (1865–1935)
Rabbi Kook, a seminal figure in Religious Zionism, perceived the return to Eretz Israel as a divine process, integrating both secular and religious Jews into a unified national revival.
He emphasized that the secular pioneers, albeit unknowingly, were fulfilling a divine mission by settling the land, and he advocated for a harmonious relationship between secular and religious communities to achieve national redemption.
Rabbi Meir Kahane (1932–1990)
Rabbi Kahane was a fervent advocate for Jewish sovereignty and security in Eretz Israel.
He argued that true sanctification of God's name occurs when Jews assert control over their land, free from dependence on foreign nations.
Kahane contended that Jewish survival necessitates a strong, unapologetic stance against adversaries, and he was critical of any form of appeasement that compromised Jewish safety and sovereignty.
Pictured Above: Sanhedrin Judges & Advisors
From Right to Left:
Rabbi Yosef Edery, Rabbi Tsvi Idan, Rabbi Moshe Yosef Cohen (Article Author).
Conclusion
The current crisis demands that Israel reflect on these teachings, reinforcing its commitment to sovereignty, cultural identity, and national strength.
By embracing the wisdom of our spiritual leaders (Such as Rabbi Dov Lior Shlit"a) and the resilience inherent in our heritage, we can navigate these challenges and secure a future of peace and security for the people of Israel.
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