JERUSALEM – For five months in Hamas captivity, Omri Shem Tov made Kiddush every Shabbat with half a bottle of grape juice—and it never ran out. “It never spoiled, never emptied. It reminded me of the miracle of the oil on Chanukah,” he said, describing the faith that sustained him through the darkness of Gaza’s tunnels.
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Recently freed, Shem Tov shared his story with 800 volunteers from “Kesher Yehudi,” recalling the prayers and spiritual strength that carried him. “Even in the deepest darkness, I felt the light you sent me,” he said.
His mother, Sheli Shem Tov, reflected on her own faith during the 15-month ordeal. “Not only did I keep Shabbat—Shabbat kept me,” she said, expressing gratitude for the support that helped bring her son home.
Shira Sigal, daughter of former hostages Aviva and Keith Sigal, spoke of her parents’ unexpected spiritual growth in captivity, while Galit, mother of Segev Kalfon—still held by Hamas—led a powerful communal prayer for the remaining hostages.
Rabbanit Tsili Schneider, founder of “Kesher Yehudi,” underscored the unbreakable Jewish spirit: “Even in captivity, the light of our heritage shined through. Omri’s story is the story of Am Yisrael—holding onto our faith through the darkest times.”
To Ray 196, do you only believe in miracles that happened 2000 years ago? NEWS ALERT: The same G-D that made miracles for the Jews in Mitzraim, Shushan, and The Bais Hamikdash in the times of the Chashmonoim can and does make miracles in 2025
Why so much cynicism? Don’t like it, don’t believe it? Don’t belittle!
His mother said… “Not only did I keep Shabbat—Shabbat kept me,”
Classic line from chazal – actually taking place in front of our own eyes.
Just last night (prior to seeing this article) I mentioned to my mother a story I read about Elizabeth Smart. When she was held captive on a hot desert mountain once a cold glass of water appeared to her. She said she had no idea idea where it came from.
What’s the miracle?