Former Hamas Captive Eli Cohen Calls to Recite 'Shema Yisrael' at Wedding Ceremony

Eli Cohen, who survived 505 days in Hamas captivity, married Ziv Avod yesterday at a ceremony held at Havat Ronit. The wedding was officiated by Chief Rabbi David Lau and Rabbi Shai Graucher, a noted humanitarian figure during the recent conflict. During the chuppah, Cohen emotionally addressed the attendees, recalling how his life changed on October 7, the day his captivity began, interrupting his plans to propose marriage. He shared that throughout his ordeal, he dreamed of standing under the wedding canopy and promised God that if he ever reached this moment, he would pause the ceremony to express his gratitude and invite everyone to recite the "Shema Yisrael" prayer together.

Cohen dedicated his remarks to his late father, expressing deep appreciation for his spiritual presence and support during his captivity. He described his father as having been with him through hunger, pain, and cold nights, and thanked him for the strength to reach this joyous occasion alongside the woman he loves. Cohen then invited all present to join him in reciting the "Shema Yisrael," emphasizing it was voluntary but meaningful to him. The ceremony symbolized a profound moment of resilience and faith after a harrowing experience.