Coming Home:
A Message from Jerusalem

In Short: What You Need to Know

1. Unwavering Support – Since October 7th, your presence, prayers, and contributions have been deeply felt and appreciated in Israel.
2. Faith in the Future – Just as the prophet Jeremiah foresaw, buying homes in Israel today is an act of faith in renewal and growth.
3. Coming Home – Visiting or moving to Israel isn’t just a trip—it’s a return to our ancestral home, with challenges and rewards.
4. Spiritual Aliyah – True aliyah isn’t just relocation; it’s a commitment to continued spiritual growth and mitzvot.
5. A Collective Mission – Strengthening Jewish identity and connection to Israel is a national calling—let’s bring everyone home.

Hello from Jerusalem,

First of all, thank you.
On behalf of many Israelis, I want to express our deep gratitude for everything you have done. Since October 7th, we have felt your love and care more than ever. Support delegations arrived here immediately after the massacre, and since then, you haven’t stopped coming. It’s not something we take for granted—that during a war, instead of distancing yourselves, you choose to come closer and help. Whether through physical presence, prayer initiatives, Torah study, or financial contributions, your support means the world to us.

I’ve had the privilege of meeting groups who have visited multiple times and individuals experiencing Israel for the first time. Choosing to visit with your family during the holidays—or even to buy a home here—is not merely a financial decision. It is a profound spiritual and ethical statement. It is a declaration not only to those around you but also to the Almighty. For this, we thank you.

Here are some timeless thoughts and insights from great figures throughout history that may inspire your journey toward becoming Israelis or homeowners in Israel:

Faith in Renewal – A Prophecy Fulfilled:

During times of destruction, the prophet Jeremiah declared: “Homes, fields, and vineyards will again be bought in this land.” Even when Jerusalem lay in ruins and hope seemed lost, Jeremiah expressed unwavering faith in a brighter future. His prophecy was about you—you are fulfilling it today. Your actions signify faith in growth and renewal.

Coming Home – The Emotional and Spiritual Connection:

Elie Wiesel once said that when a Jew visits Israel for the first time—even at 80 years old—it feels like coming home. This land has been our home since Abraham heard the divine call: “Go to the land I will show you.” While settling here can be challenging, it is also deeply rewarding. As one new immigrant told me: “I’m not stupid; I’m just new.” Welcome! You’ve made a brave choice. But remember—don’t try to force yourself to “become Israeli” overnight. Instead, bring your unique blessings and strengths to enrich this land.

True Aliyah – A Journey of Growth:

The Lubavitcher Rebbe emphasized that aliyah must be a true aliyah—not just physical relocation but also spiritual growth. Some mistakenly believe that making aliyah fulfills their ultimate mitzvah and that other commandments become secondary. In truth, mitzvot gain even greater significance in Israel. May your aliyah elevate you both physically and spiritually.

A National Mission– Strengthening Jewish Identity:

This is not just a personal story—it is part of a collective mission. A mother of a hostage once told me that the slogan “Bring Them Home Now” applies not only to captives but to all Jews worldwide. This historic moment calls us to combat assimilation and strengthen Jewish identity globally. Bring them home now: every Jew should feel connected to their heritage—a sense of home, family, and purpose.

May we all merit to return to our true home—with God—in Jerusalem.

Sivan Rehav-Meir
Journalist and Lecturer
(To receive Sivan’s daily content in English, search online for “The Daily Thought.“)