New Mikveh Dedicated to Fallen IDF Observer Aviv Margalit Hajaj in Gaza Envelope
A new mikveh named "Maayanot Aviv" was inaugurated on Monday in Mavki'im, a community in the Gaza Envelope, in memory of IDF Sergeant Aviv Margalit Hajaj, an observer from Kibbutz Gilat who was killed during the October 2023 battle at Nahal Oz outpost. Aviv was among 22 female soldiers who died in the attack, including 16 observers, and her legacy inspired the project, realized through cooperation between the National Center for Family Purity, the "L'Zichar Lanetzach" organization, the Ministry of Religious Services, and the Hof Ashkelon Regional Council, with generous support from an American Jewish donor family.
Aviv's parents, Mira and Pinchas Hajaj, have turned her memory into a mission to support IDF soldiers. On Aviv's first day of service in October 2022, she noticed the absence of mezuzot in soldiers' living quarters, prompting her mother to advocate for their installation across bases. This effort led to hundreds of mezuzot being placed in military facilities, supported by the IDF Chief Rabbi Eyal Karim. A unique mezuzah artwork depicting Aviv placing a mezuzah, created by the aunt of another fallen soldier, was installed at the new mikveh.
The dedication ceremony included bereaved families, Chief Rabbi Eyal Karim, former Minister of Religious Services Rabbi Yaakov Avitan, Rabbi Shlomo Ra'anan of "Ayelet HaShachar," Hof Ashkelon Regional Council head Itamar Revivo, Merhavim Council head Shay Hajaj, and Aviv's comrades recently returned from captivity. Mira Hajaj read the names of the 22 fallen female soldiers and recalled Aviv's last message encouraging the recitation of Psalms before the attack. Rabbi Karim highlighted the spiritual significance of both Aviv's role as an observer and the mikveh as a place of hidden yet enduring impact. The event underscored the mikveh as a symbol of renewal and continuity for the community and the IDF.
The mikveh stands as a living memorial, ensuring that Aviv's light and dedication continue to inspire future generations, blending remembrance with spiritual renewal in the Gaza border region.
