Hostage Avinatan Or's Story Teaches About True Heroism
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Former hostage Avinatan Or's account on the TV show "Uvda" offers a lesson in heroism, according to author Aryeh Eldad. Eldad contrasts Or's active resistance during his 738 days of captivity with historical Jewish passivity. Or's refusal to be a passive victim and his consideration for others' safety over his own freedom exemplify a national heroism Israel needs, Eldad writes.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Former hostage Avinatan Or's story on "Uvda" provides a lesson in heroism, according to Aryeh Eldad.
- Or endured 738 days of captivity by Hamas terrorists.
- He refused to be a passive victim and attempted to escape.
- Or prioritized others' safety over his own freedom in negotiations.
- Eldad suggests Or's heroism is national and Israel needs leaders like him.
In an interview on the Israeli television program "Uvda" (Fact), former hostage Avinatan Or shared his experiences during 738 days of captivity, offering a profound lesson on heroism, according to author Aryeh Eldad. Eldad contrasts Or's story with the historical narrative of Jewish passivity and victimhood, highlighting how the establishment of Israel necessitated a new kind of hero, a warrior.
Eldad notes that throughout Jewish history, figures of intellectual and spiritual achievement were celebrated, while those who sought to fight for the land were often marginalized. He points to examples like Bar Kokhba, the Maccabees, and even figures from the pre-state era like Joseph Trumpeldor, whose heroism was recognized posthumously or much later.
Or's heroism, Eldad argues, transcends the personal. Despite being held in isolation by Hamas terrorists, unaware of day or night and subjected to their whims, Or refused to be a passive victim. He decided to take his fate into his own hands and attempt an escape, demonstrating a profound exercise of free will under extreme duress.
Furthermore, Or expressed gratitude to his parents, who opposed deals involving the release of terrorists, indicating that his desire for freedom was tempered by a refusal to see others become future victims. Eldad suggests that Or's national heroism lies in his "us" mentality and expresses hope that Or will one day become a leader in Israel, a nation in dire need of individuals like him.
