Rabbi Turgeman and Avishai Ben Haim Discuss Surge in Jewish Faith Since War

Rabbi David Turgeman, head of the Dimona Yeshiva, and journalist Avishai Ben Haim spoke at the "Katif for National Responsibility" conference held in Yad Binyamin to mark 21 years since the evacuation of Gush Katif. The event focused on the wave of renewed Jewish faith and identity emerging since the outbreak of the recent war. Rabbi Turgeman reflected on his personal connection to the area, recalling his youth in Yamit and adulthood in Neve Dekalim, and expressed hope and resilience, stating, "The heart bleeds but strengthens the spirit. Ultimately, we feel that the people of Israel live and endure. We will continue to live, build, embrace the communities around Gaza, and dream of returning home with God's help."

During a panel titled "Tzitzit Without a Kippah," moderated by Moriah Kor, Rabbi Turgeman described the current strengthening of tradition as a divine process beyond any individual founder, emphasizing that it is a broad societal trend. He explained, "The tzitzit without the kippah is a process stronger than us, and we embrace it." Avishai Ben Haim added that since the war began, there has been a significant revival of Jewish identity, calling it a "huge revolution." He highlighted how soldiers entering Gaza sing "He who believes is not afraid," illustrating how faith is a source of strength for Israel. Ben Haim compared this shift to the cultural and value revolution that accompanied Menachem Begin's rise to power, which restored Jewish identity to the center stage of Israeli life. He concluded, "Jewish identity is the main thing."