Rabbi Yosef Alnakawa Reflects on Gaza Expulsion and Lifelong Spiritual Mission
Rabbi Yosef Alnakawa, former chief rabbi of the Gush Katif settlement bloc in Gaza, shared a detailed account of his life and struggles in a podcast interview with Arutz 7. He recounted his upbringing in Dimona, his close relationships with prominent rabbis such as Rabbi Zvi Yehuda Kook and Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu, and the founding and flourishing of Gush Katif. Despite the traumatic expulsion from Gaza twenty years ago, Rabbi Alnakawa emphasized that his spiritual mission continues, stating, "I am still the rabbi of Gush Katif," and expressing hope to return to Gaza, which he regards as one of Israel's holy cities.
The rabbi described the profound human and communal upheaval caused by the expulsion, including the loss of homes, schools, and synagogues in a single day. He revealed that the emotional and physical toll led to a severe health crisis, nearly costing him his life. He also shared personal stories illustrating his pastoral care, such as saving a man from suicide through compassionate dialogue. Rabbi Alnakawa recounted the constant threat of terror attacks in the region, the injuries suffered by his wife from a mortar shell, and the communal efforts to support victims through the "Avnet" association and legislation for terror victims, which he helped promote.
Highlighting his religious and cultural contributions, Rabbi Alnakawa spoke about establishing 25 ritual baths (mikvaot) in Gush Katif, promoting agricultural innovations like pest-free lettuce cultivation, and preserving rare manuscripts of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook and Sephardic sages. He also reflected on the challenges Sephardic rabbis face within the religious Zionist establishment and the importance of bridging communal divides.
The interview delved into his lifelong connection with Rabbi Zvi Yehuda Kook, including personal letters and memories of his meticulous observance of Jewish law. Rabbi Alnakawa also shared how dreams have inspired many of his religious projects, including publishing Talmudic tractates and writing books based on visionary experiences. He recounted his early years in Dimona, the influence of Holocaust survivors in his community, and the enduring vision that Gush Katif represented beyond a mere geographic location.
Rabbi Alnakawa’s reflections offer a poignant testimony to resilience, faith, and dedication to Jewish heritage amid adversity, underscoring his ongoing commitment to his community and spiritual leadership.
