D’var Torah Yom Hazikoron

In a previous Dvar Torah, we noted that as we commune with the memory of our soldiers who gave their lives in defense of the Nation and the Land of Israel, we must appreciate the self-sacrifice of those who have served and, by God's grace have returned home safely.
The following is my translation of the eloquent words of my son, Avishai
Our generation is privileged to witness a great innovation: dedication and self-sacrifice which flow from song and dance. Self-sacrifice has existed in every generation; however, it appears to me that self-sacrifice accompanied by a smile and spiritual elevation is the innovation of our generation.
As these words are being written, our first-born son has been inducted into the Israel Defense Forces. The scene at the induction base was from a different world, a wondrous and lofty world. In one corner, an English-speaking lad was completing study of a Talmudic tractate, and speaking emotionally of how he chose to leave the diaspora and enlist on behalf of the nation and the Land of Israel; all this as the Torah is in his hand. In another corner, youths are dancing with an inner strength, with broad smiles on their faces in transcendent comradeship. And I stand and observe, as in the Talmudic story in which the central character experiences a vision from the World of Truth, allowing that energy to flow through me.
What a holy generation! During a bloody war, by far the longest war in Israel's history – with the end not yet in sight – they step forward with their heads held high in praise and gratitude for the privilege that has been granted them. King Hezekiah had no way to fight the enemies who overwhelmed him and was forced to rely on miracles. However, even after the Holy One, blessed be He, performed the miracle, Hezekiah did not sing His praise, and for that reason did not merit being the Messiah. [Babylonian Talmud. Sanhedrin 94a] In contrast, our youth run to participate in a war of mitzva, singing praise for the fact of being privileged to be partners in the Divine move. Is there any greater rectification? Is it not fitting that this generation be privileged to see the Messiah?

This is true freedom, freeing the soul in a natural manner, out of simple faith, perceiving the Divine historic move, and nullifying themselves to eternity. This triggers an outpouring of joy, which has not been seen in the Jewish world for many generations, and perhaps never seen before. Our Sages prayed that they not see the pangs of Messiah [Babylonian Talmud. Sanhedrin 98b], and at times, as we reflect on the challenges we deal with, it is perfectly clear why. But I will dare to suggest that perhaps, despite their deep and far-reaching vision, our Sages were not privileged to see what happens within the gates of the IDF induction base – the natural cure for the distress and danger of descending to a feeling of apathy.
Let us leverage these strengths to simply raise our eyes heavenward and appeal to God:
We beseech You, guard and save our holy children, hold them with Your left hand under their heads, and Your right hand embracing them. [based upon Song of Songs 2:6] And specifically with this gentle connection to God, may they pursue and reach our enemies and return having vanquished them. Let not one hair of their heads fall to the ground [I Samuel 14:45] and may they return home healthy in body and spirit.
(prepared by David Magence)

Shabbat Shalom!
The Va’ad