Former Hostage Karina Aryev Affixes Mezuzah in New Room Marking Her Return Home

Karina Aryev, the Israeli lookout who was held captive by Hamas in Gaza for 477 days, marked a poignant moment last Wednesday by affixing a mezuzah at the entrance to her new room. The ceremony, accompanied by Rabbi David Druck from Kibbutz Kissufim, symbolized her return to normal life after enduring a prolonged and difficult captivity. Aryev held the mezuzah with deep emotion as Rabbi Druck, who has supported families of hostages since the Simchat Torah events, stood by her side.

Aryev recently shared her story of faith and resilience at a gathering organized by the Jewish Connection organization. She described how, despite the harsh conditions of hunger, fear, and uncertainty, she found comfort in speaking directly to God, whom she addressed as a father figure. She emphasized that all captives in Gaza felt a divine protection that was essential for their survival and eventual release.

One of the most moving aspects of her story was the collective decision she and her fellow captives made to observe Passover dietary laws, refusing to eat chametz for seven days despite severe hunger. Ahead of this year's Passover, Aryev urged the Israeli public to leave an empty chair at the Seder table in honor of the hostages, reminding everyone that true freedom cannot be felt until all captives return.

Aryev also recounted an act of bravery during the Simchat Torah morning attack when she deflected a grenade thrown into their shelter at Nahal Oz, saving her life and those of her comrades. The mezuzah ceremony represents a new chapter for Aryev and her family, symbolizing hope, recovery, and the reclaiming of life. "I got my life back," she said, "I survived for my family and my friends."