In what has been dubbed the “Death Shelter,” a moving ceremony took place last night (Sunday), where a copy of the Tanya (an early work of Hasidic philosophy by the founder of Chabad) was printed, as per a directive from the last Chabad leader to publish the book wherever possible. The shelter was the scene of a brutal attack by terrorists on October 7, in which Staff Sgt. and musician Aner Shapira courageously fought back, throwing 7 grenades at the terrorists, thereby saving the the lives of eight individuals. The ceremony symbolically served to transform the shelter from death to life and light.
During the ceremony, which was attended by Aner’s parents and a large audience, the focus was on Aner’s self-sacrifice for Jews he did not know. Special emphasis was placed on a song he wrote, composed, and recorded during his life, “Today We Fight Against Brotherly Hatred,” along with Chapter 32 of the Tanya, which deals with love for Israel, a message connecting to Aner’s story.
A Prayer for the Safe Return of Hostage Alon Ohel
The event was also held in honor of hostage Alon Ohel, who was abducted from that very same shelter, with a prayer for his safe return home, healthy and whole, along with all other hostages. Participants offered a prayer that through the printing of the Tanya in that place, news of their impending release would soon be announced.
During the event, it was highlighted that in a place where terrorists tried to insert grenades to extinguish lives, the participants brought in a Tanya to illuminate the space. The shelter which had previously witnessed an attack, has now taken on a new significance as a symbol of life, faith, and light.
The Officer Who Courageously Fought in Ofakim During Simchat Torah, Killed Terrorists, and Saved Many Residents
Behind the initiative were Rabbi Izzy Morgenstern, the commander of the Pega outpost, Rabbi Levi Margolin, and student Aharon Freiman. Among the participants was also officer Itamar Alush, who fought courageously in Ofakim during Simchat Torah, killed terrorists, and saved many residents. Alush recorded a video for his followers and received a copy of the Tanya that was printed in Khan Younis.
On that dark Sabbath, Sergeant Alush fought in the streets of Ofakim and risked his life for the city’s residents. “I suddenly see three tall terrorists in front of me with vests, RPGs on their backs, and Kalashnikovs in their hands,” Sergeant Alush describes his encounter. “That’s the point where I realized how helpless I am. I’m about 40 meters away with a pistol and I decide to fire two shots. I see that one of them got hit in the thigh. The other two turn towards me and start firing bursts in my direction.”
