IDF Officer Corps Prepares for High Holidays with Focus on Jewish Identity

The IDF's Officer Training School (Bahad 1) has completed its preparations for the High Holidays, aiming to provide comprehensive logistical, halachic, and spiritual support to all its trainees and personnel. The school is implementing measures across nine different officer courses, both on base and in operational field settings, to ensure every soldier can observe holiday commandments regardless of their location or mission.

Major Rabbi Eliad Kornberg, the school's rabbinical officer, stated in an interview with Arutz 7 that the goal is for the sound of the shofar to be heard everywhere. Preparations include constructing approximately 1,000 square meters of sukkahs for eating and sleeping, both on and off base, and supplying the "four species" for Sukkot. The school also plans to organize activities to foster a deeper connection to the holidays beyond mere ritual observance.

Rabbi Kornberg highlighted the spiritual awakening among trainees during this period, noting that they are taking on greater responsibility for themselves and the future of the Jewish people. He described the trainees as being at a life stage where they are questioning their identity and purpose as they prepare for leadership roles.

Bahad 1 serves a diverse population, including religious and secular soldiers, women, and non-Jewish personnel. The rabbinate provides 24/7 support through a synagogue and study hall, offering halachic guidance, prayers, and Torah classes. Educational activities are also conducted in collaboration with other base units to connect all personnel with Jewish heritage and the Hebrew calendar.

Rabbi Kornberg expressed his sense of mission, viewing his role in training future leaders as a great privilege. He reflected on his family's history, mentioning his great-grandparents who perished in the Holocaust, and stated that he would pay any price to tell them where their descendant serves and how the Jewish people have rebuilt. He feels honored to serve in this capacity and contribute to the ongoing progress of the Jewish people.