Ex-hostage's newfound faith inspires us all

Yigal Yaakov, a 13-year-old Israeli who spent nearly two months in Hamas captivity, has shared his remarkable journey of spiritual transformation following his release.

In a touching social media post this weekend, the teenager, now wearing a kippah, announced to his followers: "If you're looking for me - I'm observing Shabbat."

Yaakov was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 Hamas attacks, along with his brother Or. After being released as part of the November hostage deal, he has been increasingly vocal about his newfound religious faith - a direct result of his harrowing experience in captivity.

"During captivity, all that kept me going was the faith that I wasn't alone," Yaakov shared in a recent social media post. "God watched over me during every hour I was held hostage."

The young survivor's spiritual journey hasn't been without its challenges. "When I returned, I immediately told everyone I wanted to start wearing a kippah and tzitzit. Everyone laughed in my face," he wrote. "They asked if I was crazy, but they didn't understand - I thought about this throughout my entire time in captivity."

Recently, Yaakov shared another emotional message: "When Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) arrived, I knew the best time in my life had come. Creator of the World, you've strengthened my faith this year, made me believe that everything will be good in the end."

His most recent posts reflect a deep sense of gratitude: "I feel I have much to ask forgiveness for, but I also feel a strong enough connection to give thanks for protecting me from our enemies."

Channel 14 contributed to this article.