Initiating the writing of a Torah scroll at a military base near the Gaza Strip amidst intense combat is not an everyday occurrence. The soldiers of Division 162, the Nahal Brigade, and the Steel Strength Commando Brigade had the unique privilege of partaking in such an event, fostering a deep sense of unity among them. The event was organized by the volunteers of Kfar Chabad – Ezer LaChayal, headed by Rabbi Eliyahu Gutman, together with the Chabad House for Russian speakers in Rishon Lezion, directed by Rabbi Alex Prochensk.
The Torah’s writing began with Brigadier General Itzik Cohen, the commander of the steel formation. He desired to pen a letter to honor his subordinates, who bravely risked their lives in the combat in Gaza. The guest of honor at the event was the Rabbi of Safed Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahuv who spoke of the special directive of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s to write a letter for each soldier, which would instill a sense of spiritual protection and safety among the soldiers.
