Menachem Mendel Roth is a Hasidic singer, composer, and religious figure in Israel.
This is what he wrote:
"Although I may not represent mainstream Haredi Judaism - I've made a momentous decision: I'm enlisting in the IDF's new Haredi Brigade.
For the past year, since the war began, my heart has been shattered over and over again. The toll has been unimaginable: bereaved parents, wounded soldiers returning home forever changed, and tens of thousands of families grappling with the loss or injury of their loved ones. Our reserve soldiers have been away from home for over a year now, leaving behind worried spouses and children in broken homes. The anxiety of parents, not knowing if their sons will return safely - or how they'll return - is overwhelming. This war has touched every home in our nation, leaving no family untouched by its bloody wake.
A question has been haunting me: How can I continue sitting at home as if nothing is happening? I read about fallen soldiers in the news, sigh, and go about my day. In my immediate community, you'd hardly know that the country has been in turmoil for a year. Deep down, I've known something was fundamentally wrong with this situation. How can I remain silent while my brothers' blood is being spilled?
It took me a full year to face this hard truth. Instead of carrying around a burden of excuses while my conscience weighed heavily on me, I knew I had to act. I needed to explore my options, to see if there was a way for someone like me - a Haredi Jew - to serve while maintaining my religious way of life. If such a path existed, I knew I had to take it.
That's when I learned about the new Hashmonaim Brigade, a dedicated Haredi unit being formed right now. I understand perfectly well what it means for someone like me to put on an IDF uniform and become a combat soldier. This isn't a decision I could make lightly, especially given my influence on young people in the Haredi community. So I met with the brigade's advisory team, discussed my concerns, raised important cultural sensitivities, and learned about their vision. What I discovered amazed me.
This isn't just another "Haredi track" in the IDF - it's something entirely new. The military has gained a deeper understanding this year and is committed to doing whatever it takes to make this succeed. They're truly listening to our community's spiritual and emotional needs and adapting accordingly. Even more remarkably, when I spoke with the Haredi staff involved in this project, I learned that most Haredi rabbis who've been fully briefed on the details have given their blessing to this groundbreaking initiative. While they suggested that mass recruitment might take a year to prove itself, they were genuinely impressed by the revolutionary approach.
Today, I visited the Kirya base in Tel Aviv to meet Colonel Avinoam Emunah, the brigade commander. I caught up with him just as he was leaving the Chief of Staff's office after a lengthy discussion about the Haredi brigade. I have to be honest - I've never met someone in such a high-ranking position who embodies such genuine humility and deep religious conviction.
During our conversation, I told him I felt confused because it was like talking to a yeshiva head rather than a colonel. When I asked him about his vision for the brigade, his response moved me to tears: "My goal is to create a holy Jewish brigade in the spirit of King David's army."
He meant every word. His staff told me he even studies Talmud during his breaks. I was so touched that I asked if IDF regulations allowed hugging a brigade commander - and when he laughed, I gave him one. I later learned he's considered one of the IDF's most exceptional leaders, combining military excellence with authentic religious devotion.
So I've made my decision. I'm joining the new Haredi brigade as a combat soldier, while also hoping to contribute to its Jewish spiritual character. I recognize that basic training might prove too challenging for me physically or mentally, and if that happens, I'll focus my efforts on spiritual leadership within the brigade.
I'm both excited and proud of this choice. I believe this brigade represents a turning point for our divided society, bringing new hope and historic significance to Israel.
Each generation faces unique challenges in preserving Jewish tradition, requiring fresh approaches for young Jewish people. The divine calling of one generation may differ from what's needed in the next.
With God's help, and in honor of my ancestors who dreamed of this moment for two thousand years, I answer: Here I am."
At Jfeed, we salute you, Menachem Mendel Roth, for this brave and difficult choice. Go in peace, and come back in peace and may Hashem protect you every step of the way.
