I am rather skeptical when it comes to “miracle stories” – especially ones that emerge from war. So I did not believe the story about the female suicide bomber in Gaza who flinched upon hearing the Israeli soldier cry out “Shema Yisrael”, allowing them to apprehend her. Turns out the terrorists' mother was an Israeli Jew who married an Arab, and the would-be suicide bomber was in fact a Jew whose soul was rattled upon hearing Shema.
Well, apparently the story might be true. An unnamed Israeli military source spoke to Breitbart News, revealing details about the attack that killed Lt. Goldin and two other soldiers, and he also mentioned the incident with the Jewish suicide bomber. The article reports:
The officer explained how, after the suicide bombing that killed Lt. Goldin, a second kidnapping team of Hamas terrorists... ran back into the tunnel from which the terrorists emerged. The tunnel led back into a mosque. From the mosque, they escaped in a clearly marked UNRWA ambulance. The terrorists then made contact with high-ranking Hamas officials hiding in the Islamic University.
Israeli intelligence intercepted a conversation between the kidnappers and the Hamas officials at the Islamic University and thus got all the particulars regarding the hiding place of the kidnappers. Within minutes, the IAF attacked both the kidnappers' location and the Islamic University.
In the midst of this attack, a second force of IDF soldiers--which had gone into a mosque looking for weapons, explosives, and rockets-- encountered a female suicide bomber who was about to detonate the belt she wore, which would have resulted in the deaths of the soldiers. One of the soldiers instinctively recited the opening words of the holiest Jewish prayer “Shema Yisrael”. The female suicide bomber hesitated and began trembling, giving the soldiers a chance to grab her and disable the device.
The soldiers then took her prisoner and turned her over to a counter-intelligence unit. Their investigation uncovered that the female suicide bomber’s mother was a Jew who had married a Palestinian in Israel and, after the wedding, was smuggled against her will into Gaza. There she lived a life filled with abuse and humiliation, and was basically a captive. In addition to the female suicide bomber, there were two smaller children as well. An armored force went in and rescued the two small children.
The story is reminiscent of Rabbi Eliezer Silver who rescued Jewish children in Europe who had been hidden during the Holocaust in Christian orphanages and monasteries. The children themselves, raised as Christians for years, no longer knew they were Jewish. And there were times the local priest denied harboring any Jewish children. So how did Rabbi Silver discover the Jewish children? Dressed as a high ranking U.S. army officer, he would visit the children during bedtime and loudly proclaim “Shema Yisrael” – "Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One!"
Many children burst into tears and cried out “mommy” in the various languages they spoke. The Shema which their mothers had said to them each night was so deeply ingrained in their minds they had not forgotten it. And that is how the chaplains were able to identify the Jewish children.
The Shema saved those Israeli soldiers and rescued three Jewish souls – the suicide bomber and her two children -- from the bowels of Gaza. Something she heard startled her. Her Jewish soul, buried by years of indoctrination, hate and abuse, was stirred.
My teacher, Rabbi Noah Weinberg, of blessed memory, would tell the story of Rabbi Silver as a lesson that the Jewish soul always has a pulse. It is our responsibility to find the words that will penetrate. If this story is true, then through his tragic death Lt. Goldin enabled three bewildered Jewish souls to be brought back to their people.
With thanks to Rabbi Stephen Baars
(26) Yaakov Moreno, April 20, 2015 2:39 PM
עם ישראל חי!
שלום עליכם
מורנו
לוחם
(25) Bethany, August 28, 2014 9:46 PM
Rabbi Eliezer Silver who rescued Jewish children in Europe.
For the past 8 years or so I have watched the following video and though the song and the voice touched my soul each time I cannot stop crying watching thse scenes knowing what happened during the holocaust. After having played this video several times and I still do, its only now that I realized that the story of Rabbi Eliezer Silver is actually sung in this video SHEMA YISROEL, by YAAKOV SHWEKEY - What a beautiful Voice and what a beautiful Song.. I just cried again and you will too.
Yaakov Shwekey - Shema Yisroel.flv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8D1DuVmtVQ
And indeed, what an amazing article this has been to read. Thank you!!!
(24) Basha, August 18, 2014 7:46 AM
a beautiful story
It is more than possible, with a slight twist, I have heard my muslim neighbour saying "there is only one Gd" - so there is always the possibility that the suicide bomber may also have thought the Jewish soldiers to be of muslim extraction.!? - I do believe the story as it is written? yes, there have been too many miracles through Jewish history to deny and the grandest miracle is that so many other civilisations have diminished while we still stand and be counted.
(23) Angel, August 18, 2014 6:05 AM
Raised catholic
Raised catholic,later I became baptist.For first time in my life I really studied the Bible. The Pentateuc (Torah) was my favorite. Then I found my grandfather on my mother side was a Jew. He died when my mother was 9. I grew up in a country which government and propaganda its against Israel. I always defended Israel, risking my freedom. Suddenly I understood why. I got hebrew blood. I cant explain why I cried reciting Shema Israel and why I cant stop recite it everyday. Today I am studying Judaism. Soon I will have my circumcision. Adonai is my life! Israelies are my people! My life belongs to HaShem! Am Israel Jai!
(22) Judith Bron, August 17, 2014 11:47 PM
The Jewish neshama lives through and despite everything.
The Jewish neshama lives through and despite everything.
(21) Helen Schwab (Chaiah), August 17, 2014 5:27 AM
reply to #18:
Even if not raised Jewish, it's quite possible her mother said the Shma to her at bedtime. But I agree that attempts to authenticate the story should be made before publishing it. If true, it could be that the IDF wouldn't want to publicize the story b/c it could put the mother at risk.
(20) Chava, August 15, 2014 3:00 PM
I am Anonymous #12
It is precisely because of the power of Shema and all prayer that It upsets me when a dubious story is used to prove it. Prayer can change a situation in the blink of an eye and can be proven with true stories. Using an "amaaaazing" story which isn't verified, as is happening so often lately, diminishes that power in some people's minds as they wonder why we would have to make up stories to prove it. Judaism is a rational religion and doesn't need all these "tugs at the heartstrings" to prove itself. However, Sharona, I did like your point about how quickly skeptics will believe gossip and other such talk. Touche.
(19) sharona, August 15, 2014 4:31 AM
Sure we should be careful what with what we hear and read. But why is it that when we hear gossip, we believe it without investigating. However, when we hear about miracles, we want proof.
The Shema really is powerful. And there are individuals who are sometimes kidnapped and taken to an Arab village.
whether or not this story actually happened, we should still realized the power of Shema in different situations
(18) amw, August 14, 2014 9:04 PM
not believable
I don't believe one word of the story. The suicide bomber was not raised Jewish and didn't have a clue as to what the soldier would be been saying.
Ari, August 17, 2014 12:28 AM
Why not?
We do know that sadly many Israeli women fall in love with Palestinians fall in love and marry Palestinians and then get taken to Gaza. Yad L'achim outreach have often gone into Gaza to rescue women in these horrible abusive situations. Why shouldn't this story be true? I'm sure the mother taught her shema at some point.
An amazing story!
susan weinberger, August 17, 2014 10:26 PM
you forgot one detail
Yes, we know the woman was not raised Jewish and did not know she was Jewish, BUT HER NESHAMA (soul) KNOWS.
and when IT hears the shema, it can have a tremendous effect on her body and mind. Do you know how many thousands of people were brought up as catholics, when their fathers told their mothers that they were FORBIDDEN to tell their children they were Jewish, yet the children were drawn to Judaism, converted (or were told the truth right before converting) . This is all from the neshoma.
(17) Ellery, August 14, 2014 7:27 PM
Awesome
The story is great just show HaShem is still with Israel in all situations.
(16) Anonymous, August 14, 2014 7:04 PM
Dubious sourcing -- has anyone tried for better?
Has anyone from Aish or known to Aish asked the IDF or an authoritative source in the Israeli government about this report? What about the chief rabbinate? Anonymous Nos. 9 and 12 are right, Breitbart alone is mighty thin. If this were horses, I wouldn't be within 100 meters of the betting window.
Anonymous, August 14, 2014 7:37 PM
Breitbart-- not a credible source
Agree that Breitbart is a far from credible source.
Akiva, August 15, 2014 6:04 PM
Why is it not credible?
I have read several people mention that Breitbart is not credible. Why not? Is it because you don't like what they say? What stories have they pushed that were not credible?
Anonymous, August 15, 2014 7:20 PM
Shame on you
If you are Jewish and claim to be pro-Israel, shame on you. Breitbart is very credible, and very pro-Israel. What news source do you rely on - BBC? How long do you think you can spit on our supporters, while idolizing the leftist terrorist enablers who give our money to Hamas and Iran, without repercussions?
(15) eliazar, August 14, 2014 6:41 PM
SHEMA
I AM CLOSE TO 80 YEARS OLD AS A 5 YEAR OLD CHILD IN 1940 IN LONDON ENGLAND DURING THE BLITZ EVEY NIGHT I WOULD SAY MY EVNING PREYERS INCLUDING THE SHEMA IT WAS THAT SEPT AROUND ROSH HASHANAH THE NAZIS MOUNTED A VERY HEAVY BOMBING RAID ON LONDON MY FAMILY WAS STAYING WITH MY GRAND PARENTS THAT NIGHT WE WERE HIT BY A BOMB WHICH DESTROYED MY GRAND PARENTS HOME LUCKLY WE SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES TO THIS DAY I FELT RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT HAPPENED WHY YOU ASK THAT NIGHT I DID NOT SAY SHEMA YISRAEL BEFORE RETIRING
Anonymous, August 14, 2014 7:38 PM
Caps lock broken?
Is your caps lock key broken?
Typing in all capital letters is like shouting. Most people turn off the message.
John, August 14, 2014 10:20 PM
Puleez
I hope when you are 80 years old people show you a bit more tolerance....
Kelly Rebekah ben Maimon, August 14, 2014 11:09 PM
Most people turned off.. Not me!
The individual is 80 years old and speaking from his heart. Stop being so sensitive and focus on the wisdom of his words, Annonymous. At least he identified who he was, which is a lot more than can be said about you.
London, England
Bubblove, August 14, 2014 11:13 PM
YOU ARE ONE RUDE PERSON!!!!! CAP LOCKS BROKEN?
How can you reprimand an 80 year old man for using caps? Don't you have anything to contribute to the story? YOU ARE SO RUDE.
You should be ashamed of yourself. Didn't your mother teach you any manners.
Anonymous, August 15, 2014 12:24 AM
I DARE YOU
TO CRITICIZE THIS MAN FOR WRITTING HIS COMMENTS IN CAPITAL LETTERS. AT 80 YEARS LET US SEE HOW GOOD YOUR VISION IS, DID YOU EVEN READ THIS MAN'S COMMENTS, OH OF COURSE YOU DID NOT IT WAS IN CAPS. TO BAD YOU MAY OF LEARNED SOMETHING. BESIDES YOUR KNOWLEDGE IN INTERNET ETIQUETTE. TO MY FRIEND ELIAZAR STOP BLAMING YOURSELF, FOR IT TOOK THE WHOLE WORLD TO STOP THE MADMAN. AS FOR WHY YOU DID NOT RECITE THE SHEMA THAT NIGHT MANY YEARS AGO YOU NEED NOT SAY, FOR SOMEONE THERE DID FOR YOU ARE HERE WITH US TODAY, AND FOR THAT I SAY BORUCH HASHEM. P.S I AM SHOUTING AT ANONYMOUS !!!!!!!!!
Cujo, August 15, 2014 1:11 AM
Maybe
Maybe, at the age of almost 80, the poster Eliazar, whom you criticize, can not see well. Perhaps he needs to see letters in Uppercase becuase of poor vision. Get a grip, Anonymous. Our elders have much to teach us and you have a lot to learn.
wendy, August 15, 2014 2:14 AM
respect
Please show some respect for your elders. She said she was 80 years old. Please be Kind in your replys.
leah, August 15, 2014 4:49 AM
please be sensitive
:) Not everyone uses a computer as swiftly as you.
Anonymous, August 15, 2014 4:50 AM
The truth will Always Set You Free
We are all Children of God. Why one brother smites another will never be justified
Anonymous, August 15, 2014 5:02 AM
Wow Thank you for sharing
That is an amazing story-- I am always awestruck and humbled by people who have lived so long and seen and experienced so much. Thank you for sharing. and kudos to you for keeping up with the modern technology, like a teenager!
(14) Anonymous, August 14, 2014 5:50 PM
The power of Prayer
The soldier, confronted by a would be suicide bomber, turned to God and prayed....causing the bomber to hesitate. Killing another person or group of people by suicide bombing is not a natural act. It has to be brainwashed into a person. The blueprint in our souls, Give by God is to NUTURE life, not mercilessly snuff it out. The Holy prayer uttered, awoke that blueprint, and she hesitated. This is a story that should be told to every person..God does not wish Death, only man's ignorance and selfishness would seek such atrocity. If a suicide bomber sadly wanted to make a statement, then detonating themselves in an open cleared field with witnesses from a safe distance would be the way to do it. then the world would stop and say..why would a person kill themself in such a public manner? This is the extremity of conviction to take one's own life for a point, but God does not wish this...we all know this in our hearts. However ...to do the detonation amidst civilians...to target women and children..in fact, anyone...is an act of attempted murder.. There is no political or religious principle that can be respected once it is carried out by suicide bombing causing murder of the people of Israel, or anyone else. Would it be offensve to say that if the Muslims felt so strongly about something, they should have a daily suicide bombing of themselves in an open cleared field, and call everyone to watch? Would they like to do this? It would be terribly sad to see anyone kill themselves, but they would not be harming anyone else...Again, I do not believe God wants any death this way..but if Islamic extremists believe God wants death of those who do not believe..then they should start with themselves in an open field. It would be my hope that in the moment before they detonate themselves only,they realize the first principle that God is always there, listening, waiting to guide us and help us solve all problems....starting with the Power of Prayer.
(13) Lj, August 14, 2014 5:48 PM
Please tell us any miracles like this
....we are praying for the IDF and it is so encouraging when we hear of things like this
(12) Anonymous, August 14, 2014 5:10 PM
Are you sure this story is true?!?
I have heard this story several times and was skeptical. I still don't see any credible proof of the truth of this story. If it's true, it is nice, but nice isn't always true. The amount of untrue "soul stirring" tearjerkers around is incredible. And that so many people in this brilliant nation believe them is also incredible.
(11) elana, August 14, 2014 4:52 PM
we must always look for some good
"Through his tragic death Lt. Goldin enabled three bewildered Jewish souls to be brought back to their people."
we must always look for some good even in the most horrific events. this is the one {or three} good from the one horrific event.
thank you for showing this to us.
(10) Susan, August 14, 2014 4:35 PM
What about the girl's mother?
I'm wondering why they couldn't rescue the girl's mother as well.
(9) Anonymous, August 14, 2014 4:14 PM
breitbart as primary source?
nice story but tainted by the source.
nechemia coopersmith, August 14, 2014 5:23 PM
it's not best source, i agree
we still don't know if this is 100% true. but having a credible website report it gives it some credence. If any readers know anymore information, please share it with us.
Anonymous, August 15, 2014 2:55 AM
Yes, Breitbart
How thoroughly disappointing to read this smug putdown of one of the most pro-Israel websites out there. Maybe you prefer to get your "news" from BBC?
I'm a proud Tea Party American Jew who's grateful for the overwhelming support of Israel by the Tea Party supporters, which polls show consistently at 30-40% higher than Tea Party opponents.
And yet as typical Jews, we must spit on the people who are saving our lives, and embrace those like 0bama who are funding terrorists, withholding arms shipments from Israel, and thus trying to kill us.
Yisroel, August 18, 2014 3:42 AM
Breitbart, yes 2!
I find much more balanced and complete reports from Breitbart than Huffington post, NY Times, Washington Post.
Btw, Mr Breitbart was a Jew. If I understand correctly, one of the editors is Ben Shapiro, a proud Jew who, I believe, wears as Hanukkah.
(8) chana@jewishmom.com, August 14, 2014 3:59 PM
wow!
thanks for sharing this, what a phenomenal story!
(7) Rachel, August 14, 2014 3:52 PM
Shema
Remembering & praying for the IDF. Thanks for sharing a heart warming story.
(6) Linda Rivera, August 14, 2014 3:18 PM
Awesome Words of “Shema Yisrael” – "Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One!"
I came close to crying. What an amazing story and what an Amazing God. We're not told what happened to the suicide bomber's mother? Also not told if the Jewish woman was forced into the act or volunteered?
If only all non-muslim females understood that practicing muslims hate infidels and marry infidel women in order to make them suffer to the utmost.
Thank You Most Wonderful God for Your Loving Kindness and Great Mercy! Thank You for saving the lives of Your IDF and the Jewish woman and two children!
(5) lynn finson, August 14, 2014 3:09 PM
Hashem is right here
What a story! When you hear it, you realize that G-d wants us to know that He never leaves us, even in the most extreme circumstances. Thank you for publicizing this, I feel like Hashem tapped us on the shoulder and reconnected to all of us big time. May the whole world soon recognize His kingship..
(4) Anonymous, August 14, 2014 3:09 PM
I was just wondering if Rabbi Nechemia revealed to much intelligence information about the mission the soldiers were on that day. If Hamas g-d forbid gets wind of it, They could ultimately do worse things, making it harder for the IDF to find them.
(3) Kelly Rebekah ben Maimon, August 14, 2014 3:02 PM
"Shema Yisrael"
Shema Yisrael always stirs something inside me, like it does others, that believe. Thank you for above. Will share with others. As for Lt Goldin, may Hashem bless his soul, for his sacrifice and continue to protect all IDF soldiers, in their quest to protect the population.
(2) Sharon M., August 14, 2014 2:59 PM
The Shema-
I was told many times by my husband who, as a young Army Staff Sargent in Vietnam, that he would say the Shema just before going into battle. From the very grim (to say the least) stories he told me of those battles, and what did happen to others, I am convinced that G-d in His mercy spared my husband from death because in that moment facing death, a young Jew didn't forget his G-d!!..
(1) Yehudith Shraga, August 14, 2014 10:52 AM
Thank you for sharing the story
It sounds as if it is high time for the Children of Israel to come Home.