Yom Hazikaron, Israel's Memorial Day, falls on the day before Independence Day (this year on Sunday night and Monday). For some background information, click here.
This song from the late '60s captures how Israelis feel about their lost "angels," over 20,000 of whom have died in various conflicts or via terror.
This song from the late '60s captures how Israelis feel about their lost "angels," over 20,000 of whom have died in various conflicts or via terror.
How Can I Bless (Mah Avarech), by Rachel Shapira
(click here for Hebrew lyrics)
"How can I bless him, what gift shall I give
to this child?" said the angel of love.
And he gave him a smile that was radiant as light,
And he gave him two eyes that were open and clear
To seek out each flower and each creature and bird
And a heart to rejoice in each day of the year.
“How can I bless him, what gift shall I give
to this child?” said the angel of love.
And he gave him two feet that were light in the dance,
A soul to rejoice in each tune and each song,
A hand that collected the shells on the shore,
An ear to respond to the old and the young.
“How can I bless him, what gift shall I give
to this child?” said the angel of love.
But those hands that were able to make flowers grow
Were blessed with the skill to drive engines of might,
And the feet that could dance also knew how to march,
And the lips that could sing, also summoned to fight.
“How can I bless him, what gift shall I give
to this child?” said the angel of love.
“I have given him all that an angel can give,
Two light dancing feet, and a song and a smile,
A delicate hand and a sensitive heart.
What else can I give him? I’ve given him all”.
“How can I bless him, what gift shall I give
to this child?” said the angel of love.
He has joined the angels, that wonderful boy,
He has no more blessings, no longer is blessed.
Oh Lord, Lord above, did your angel forget
To bless him with life along with the rest?
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