IN the tumultuous realm of the Israeli-Hamas conflict, we must acknowledge the enduring presence of divine providence that has accompanied Israel throughout its storied history. From the time of Joshua, the distinguished successor to Moses, the nation of Israel has faced a continuous procession of formidable adversaries, yet it has time and again emerged triumphant, often in what can only be described as miraculous circumstances. As we grapple with the unfolding crisis, it is imperative that we draw inspiration from the astounding feats of divine intervention that have consistently punctuated Israel’s modern history.
Israel’s narrative is interwoven with moments of profound significance. Since the time of Joshua, this nation, regarded by many as the apple of God’s eye, has been tried and tested in the crucible of conflict. The extraordinary tales of battles won against insurmountable odds have been etched indelibly into Israel’s historical tapestry. From the crucible of the War of Independence in 1948 to the triumphant Six-Day War in 1967, Israel has consistently confounded expectations, cementing its sovereignty and, for many observers, attesting to a supernatural hand at play.
Consider the harrowing episode of the Yom Kippur War, a pivotal moment in Israel’s modern history. In this bleak chapter, an Israeli tank stood defiantly against an overwhelming tide of 600 Syrian tanks, ensnared and outgunned. Trapped within a minefield, a single misstep would have precipitated calamity. Yet, as if scripted from the annals of divine intervention, a mighty wind suddenly swept through, unveiling the hidden mines, and thus afforded an extraordinary escape.
Another extraordinary episode unfolded at French Hill when nine Israeli soldiers faced a daunting confrontation with hundreds of Jordanian troops. Suddenly, the Jordanians inexplicably halted their advance, overtaken by an awe-inspiring sight. “Abu Ibrahim!” they exclaimed, signifying “Father Abraham.” Their testimony attested to the presence of Abraham, accompanied by a celestial host brandishing swords. This celestial encounter compelled the Jordanians to a precipitous retreat.
These remarkable stories, culled from Israel’s archives with a documentary film by Hollywood producer Bill Mckay, serve as an indelible testimony to the nation’s indomitable spirit and an enduring divine safeguard. As we grapple with the present crisis, there is a prevailing conviction that the same divine providence, which guided Israel through earlier ordeals, will once again manifest in their favor.
The jolting events of the recent past, characterized by relentless offensives from Hamas and Islamic Jihad, infiltration into Israeli communities, and the grim taking of hostages, serve as a stark reminder of the relentless tensions that grip the region. It is a trial of the Israeli people’s resilience, but their conviction is grounded in the belief that, once more, divine protection shall be their guiding light.
As the Israeli-Hamas conflict continues to evolve, individuals of faith and goodwill worldwide are summoned to offer prayers for peace and to advocate for a just resolution that can usher an end to the vicious cycle of violence, securing prosperity and security for all parties involved. In confronting such profound challenges, we must remain mindful that throughout history, Israel has not walked this path alone. It is in this unwavering faith that hope for a brighter future persists, and we, as observers and commentators, must serve as beacons of enlightenment and carriers of this enduring hope.
