6/22/2025

(Translation)

From the head of Machon Shilo, Rabbi David Bar-Hayim:

In the Name of Hashem, G‑d of the Universe

26th of Sivan, 5785

To my brothers and friends,

I was asked to address the following question: How should one offer thanks to the Almighty, blessed be He, for the events of the war with the Persian Islamo-Nazis?

One should recite the blessing HaTov VeHaMeitiv (“He who is good and does good”) with Shem U’Malchut (i.e., using God’s name and kingship), in accordance with our Mishnah (Berakhot, ch. 9), as is the law when hearing good tidings—

for there is no greater good news than what was heard today.

However, the time has not yet come to recite Hallel, for we are still in the midst of war. As our Sages taught (Pesachim 117a):

“They do not say Hallel except on a complete redemption,” and they say it only once the danger has passed, “on troubles that have ceased and redemption has come,” and not while still in the midst of tribulation.

As it is written (Psalms 74:9):

“We do not see our signs; there is no longer any prophet; nor is there among us any who knows how long.”

And further (Isaiah 33:2):

“O Hashem, be gracious to us! We have hoped for You. Be our arm every morning, our salvation also in time of trouble.”

May it be Hashem’s will that soon be fulfilled in us the verse (Deuteronomy 33:29):

“Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by Hashem, the Shield of your help and the Sword of your triumph. Your enemies shall dwindle before you, and you shall tread upon their high places.”

With God’s help, when the danger has passed from upon God’s people, may Hashem raise a banner for those who fear Him (Psalms 60:6), and then the time for Hallel will come.

“Be strong, and let your hearts be fortified, all who hope in Hashem” (Psalms 31:25).

David Chanoch Yitzchak, son of R. Chaim Rafael, of blessed memory