Nachum welcomed Menachem Butler, Editor of “Praying for the Defenders of Our Destiny,” to this morning’s JM in the AM to explore this fascinating new work focused on the Mi Sheberach for IDF Soldiers.

From the book’s Amazon page:

Praying for the Defenders of Our Destiny: The Mi Sheberach for IDF Soldiers, edited by Aviad Hacohen and Menachem Butler and published by The Institute for Jewish Research and Publications, is an anthology that delves deeply into the multifaceted role of the Mi Sheberach for IDF Soldiers within Jewish thought. Beyond its liturgical aspects, the book explores the ideological implications of the Mi Sheberach prayer, reflecting the complex interplay between reliance on military strength and spiritual faith in Israel’s security.

Prepared in response to the October 7th massacre, this volume brings together a diverse collection of over seventy contributions from scholars, rabbis, and thinkers, that investigate the history, composition, and controversies surrounding the prayer, highlighting its evolution and relevance in modern times. These reflections, alongside previously unreleased English translations of key Hebrew articles, offer diverse viewpoints on the continued significance of the Mi Sheberach for IDF Soldiers.

Praying for the Defenders of Our Destiny: The Mi Sheberach for IDF Soldiers not only reinforces unwavering support for the State of Israel and the IDF but also provides moral encouragement to soldiers’ families. It delivers insights from a Jewish religious perspective, emphasizing the critical importance of the State of Israel in contemporary Jewish history and exploring Zionism’s place within Jewish tradition.