Fallen Egoz Warrior's Final Words Before Battle Published
Sergeant Major Or Menasour, a 21-year-old soldier in the elite Egoz unit, was killed in combat in southern Lebanon on Rosh Hashanah eve, alongside seven other soldiers. His family has now released a book based on his five journals and a song he wrote and composed during his service, performed by his brother Yohai.
Just hours before entering Lebanon for the operation, Menasour wrote in his journal, "Rosh Hashanah eve, I don't know if we will hear the shofar and how the holiday will be, but it is a great privilege to be on such an important mission on the eve of the holiday, so that the residents of the north can return to their homes." His words have taken on a particularly poignant meaning since his death.
Menasour, who grew up in a religious-nationalist family, was known for his deep faith and musical talent. He played multiple instruments, wrote and composed songs, and continued to observe religious practices and study Torah even during his intense military service. His comrades remember his voice during religious ceremonies, and his family possesses a recording of him performing Havdalah in Gaza amidst combat sounds.
His journals, filled during his service in Gaza and Lebanon, reveal a thoughtful individual grappling with faith, personal growth, and love for Israel. He candidly wrote about his fears and struggles, alongside his aspiration to become a better person and bring light to those around him. One entry reads, "Great light will be upon us. Immense light will illuminate our lives. And the path will be new. A path of compassion."
His song, "In Every Place," explores the internal search for home and purpose amidst difficult realities, expressing a desire to let goodness emerge into the world. His brother Yohai has now recorded and released the song, incorporating original recordings of Or.
The book, titled "Or Zore'a Or" (Light Sows Light), was compiled by his mother and brother over two years, featuring his handwritten entries, poems, thoughts, and memories, alongside quotes from Rabbi Kook that resonated with him. A music room in his memory has been established at his former yeshiva, and an organization is being formed to promote his legacy.
