Israeli Agriculture Pioneer Shlomi Cohen Remembered for Dedication to Land

Shlomi Cohen, a pioneer of Jewish agriculture in the West Bank's Benjamin region, has passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer. Cohen, a resident of the Dolev settlement, dedicated decades to farming, planting and cultivating hundreds of dunams of vineyards in the Dolev, Talmon, and Kerem Re'im areas. His agricultural work significantly contributed to the expansion of settlements in the region, with the Kerem Re'im settlement established on land he had cultivated for years. Cohen faced challenges, including arson and attempted damage to his vineyards by local Arabs, but persisted in working and guarding the land. His efforts also extended to planting vineyards near Dolev, where future settlement expansion is planned. Rabbi Yaakov Yedidya Levi, the Rabbi of Dolev, eulogized Cohen, highlighting his deep love for the Land of Israel, Torah, genuine friendship, and self-sacrifice. "You expanded the Land of Israel and Jewish presence in it," Rabbi Levi stated, emphasizing Cohen's profound connection to the land and his commitment to settlement. The Rabbi described Cohen as a man of "great labor, labor not common today," who spent most days in his vineyards, finding life in his work. Cohen's devotion to Torah was also noted, as was his connection between agricultural work and observing commandments, including those specific to the land. He was described as someone who "connected heaven and earth" through his faith and continued planting even when uncertain of the outcome. Rabbi Levi also recalled Cohen's loyalty to friends, including the late Yigal Amit and Yanki Cohen, for whom he planted a special vineyard plot despite his illness. The Rabbi addressed Cohen's wife, Shlomtzit, and children, calling them his greatest plantings and urging them to carry on his legacy. "Your father loved you, each one of you was a whole world to him," he told the children, encouraging them to remember his love and good character.

Cohen's passing is mourned by his community, who remember his dedication to the land, his faith, and his contributions to settlement expansion in the Benjamin region.