Rabbi Gershon Edelstein Remarks on the Drums of War: "We Witness Miracles and Must Strengthen Ourselves"

Rabbi Gershon Edelstein, Head of the Yeshiva, addressed the recent (Tuesday) security escalation following rocket fire from the Gaza Strip towards southern communities.

In his remarks, Rabbi Edelstein called upon each and every individual to personally strengthen themselves. "Each person must strengthen themselves, even in a small way. Every thought of reinforcement sanctifies a person. As Rabbi Shach said in his will, 'Even one thought.' Because even the smallest thing has an impact, and perseverance is always necessary. Everyone knows their own strengths, and however much they can – they should strive to strengthen themselves. In moments of study, good thoughts, and good deeds. This brings merits to all of Israel. Even one person can have influence. The Chazon Ish says we can see the influence even of one. Each individual's strengthening impacts all of Israel."

In his words, the great Head of the Yeshiva emphasized two important points: First – even small reinforcements can lead to great salvation. Second – every individual from Israel who strengthens themselves has a positive effect on all of Israel.

"The Jewish people are in danger," said the Head of the Yeshiva. "We are one sheep surrounded by seventy wolves, all of whom hate us. This was the case even after the Holocaust. It is known that Esau hates Jacob. We do not always feel the danger, but we live in miracles, and one of those miracles is the very fact that we do not perceive the danger. The nations feel ashamed to cause us troubles, unlike the Nazis. But even after the Holocaust, there were those who weren't ashamed to say it was a pity Hitler didn't finish the job."

"Currently in the south, things are uneasy, and thus we see the miracles more clearly," the Head of the Yeshiva referred to the heavy rocket barrages and the fact that there are no casualties. "But in fact, we are always living in miracles. We are surrounded by enemies on all sides. Even when we have a peace agreement, they are all still our enemies."

"But for the miracles to continue, and God forbid, to prevent war, we need merits; and if there is reinforcement, then there are merits," concluded the Head of the Yeshiva.