Halevi, First Observant IDF Chief of Staff

By Yisrael Price

YERUSHALAYIM – The new IDF chief of staff, Herzi Halevi, was inaugurated this week, making it the first time that a religiously observant officer has assumed the highest post in the Israeli military, Arutz Sheva said on Thursday.

In his inaugural speech on Monday, Halevi included a brief devar Torah, somewhat uncharacteristic of senior officers in the IDF.

Drawing lessons from the conduct of Moshe Rabbeinu, the greatest leader of the Jewish people, he interpreted the pesukim in terms of the qualities of leadership:

“He saw their suffering” – a worthy commander shares his soldiers’ destiny;

“And he hid him in the sand” – Moses initiates and acts against a person who attacks one of his people;

“And he said to the wicked one, why do you attack your friend?” – Moses differentiates good from evil, and separates two adversaries who are members of his people.

“My wish is that we, the IDF commanders, fulfill those principles with courage and humility.”

After thanking the prime minister and the former and current defense ministers, Halevi went on to thank “my late father z”l, to my mother, brother and sister, to my entire family and friends. I thank my children, Calil, Lia, Itai and Yoav with all my heart – you are the source of my pride, the catalysts of my actions, and a quiet corner of tranquility and ‘nachas’ for me.

Halevi’sgrandmother was the niece of Rav Avraham HaCohen Kook, Israel’s first Chief Rabbi.

“Rock of Israel and its Redeemer, bless the State of Israel… and send your light and truth to its leaders, ministers and advisers” he quoted from the state prayer for peace in Israel.