On The Wings of Eagles

Today at the synagogue, I had the privilege of engaging in a deeply inspiring conversation with a gentleman named Ariyeh, who had journeyed from Israel. Our discussion centered on the vital significance of all Jews making Aliyah to Israel, an idea deeply rooted in the Torah and Jewish tradition.

The importance of making Aliyah may seem counterintuitive given how anti-Zionist not only many Pro-Hamas supporters are, but also some diaspora and even Israeli Jews are. However, it is actually all the more reason for people who understand Israel’s holiness and centrality to Jewish life, prayer, and tradition to make the leap. I think in the future, we will look back at this time and the immense pressure to abandon Israel, and we will recognize the strong souls who defied the mob.

Notably, Ariyeh himself embarked on his Aliyah journey in the 1980s at the tender age of 17. As a new immigrant, he fearlessly served as a “lone soldier” in the tank brigades before settling in central Israel, where he raised a devout and beautiful Dati (religious) family. His impassioned words reflected a profound belief in Israel’s centrality within the Jewish faith and its integral role in the broader divine plan for humanity.

I inquired about the current situation in Israel, and Ariyeh acknowledged the significant challenges, highlighting the internal political and religious conflicts among the Jewish people as the most pressing issue. Despite the ongoing terror threats against Israel, he expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to defend itself with Hashem’s help.

When asked for a key message for the diaspora Jewish community, Ariyeh emphatically stated that the Jews must come to Israel, highlighting Israel as their biblical homeland promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky, and I will give them all these lands, and through your offspring, all nations of the earth will be blessed. (Genesis 26:4)

Further, it is a mitzvah (commandment) for Jewish people to live in Israel.

You are to take possession of the land and settle in it, for I have given you the land to possess. (Numbers 33:53)

Ariyeh passionately conveyed that Judaism is not merely a faith but a call to action. His resolute belief in the connection between Israel and the Jewish people in God’s plan for His people and the world resonated deeply. From our conversation, I gleaned that it is not merely Israel that needs us to continue building and settling the Holy Land, but that we need Israel as well. The unity of the people of Israel, the land of Israel, and the Torah of Israel reflects the oneness of God. Further, there are indeed many other compelling reasons to consider making Aliyah:

Inspirational spiritual and cultural bond: Relocating to Israel represents a profound reconnection with our timeless ancestral heritage, and it empowers us to honor our profound spiritual and cultural ties to G-d and Judaism. Israel’s legal framework and rich traditions are deeply rooted in the Torah, with Hebrew as the primary language. From the observance of Shabbat and holidays to following the Jewish calendar, every aspect of life in Israel resonates with our faith. Notably, Israel is home to revered Jewish sites such as the Kotel and the Tomb of the Patriarchs, encapsulating the essence of our spiritual journey.
Safety and Security: Israel represents the unique status of being the only Jewish nation globally. Despite persistent threats of terrorism, it remains a safe haven where the Jewish community can freely practice their faith without fear of anti-Semitic sentiments. Additionally, following centuries of exile and persecution, Israel now boasts a formidable military with its army, navy, and air force, allowing the Jewish population to defend themselves effectively with one of the world’s most powerful armed forces!
Economic Opportunity: Israel epitomizes the moniker “Start-Up Nation,” featuring a landscape replete with creativity, innovation, and high-tech and scientific prospects, thus presenting a land abundant with opportunities.
Community and Support: In addition to a thriving community, Olim (immigrants) can benefit from various forms of support, including financial incentives, health subsidies, and ulpan (Hebrew language instruction) through programs such as Nefesh B’Nefesh.
Quality of Life: Israel boasts stunning natural landscapes and excels in providing high-quality healthcare, education, and social services. Additionally, it holds the 19th position in life expectancy and is ranked as the 5th happiest country in the world!

None of this is to imply that living in Israel is a simple adjustment or lifestyle. The essential point is for the Jewish people to embrace the conviction that this is our homeland and that we need to reside there.

Following the tragic events of the Holocaust, where six million Jewish individuals perished, God has redeemed us and granted us the privilege of returning from exile to the Promised Land of Israel. Undoubtedly, we are living in the era of the Messiah, and there is no time to delay our return. Just as God liberated us from the bondage of Egypt, let us now make our way, “on the wings of eagles,” to settle in the beautiful and wondrous land of Israel and Zion.