Memory becomes mission
About Legacies of Light
36 Days of Inspiration from Elul to Simḥat Torah— in the footsteps of Israel’s fallen heroes since October 7th.
A project of the
A light began to emerge
As the darkness of October 7th and the ensuing war overwhelmed the people of Israel, images of our fallen heroes — with their unique quotes — began appearing on street poles, bus stops, cars, and far-reaching spots across the globe. A light began to emerge.
The IDF is uniquely a “people’s army” — its soldiers are our beloved fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters. They are exceptional human beings beyond their courage as warriors. Every fallen soldier is a whole world lost.
The quotes they left behind speak not of war and destruction, but of spreading love, joy, and care for others. They beckon us to live life to the fullest and share warmth and kindness at every opportunity. They wanted their lives to be celebrated, as sources of light for us to live by. Through this journey we focus — one day at a time — on their precious “Legacies of Light.”
Welcome by Rav Shua Solomon
The Torah teaches us that the greatest legacy a person leaves behind is not measured by the length of their life, but by the values they lived and the impact they had on others.
“Legacies of Light” seeks to ensure that the heroes who gave their lives defending the State of Israel are remembered not only for how they died, but for how they lived. Behind every photograph is a young man or woman with dreams, faith, family, friendships, and an unwavering commitment to the Jewish people.
As we journey together from Chodesh Elul through Simchat Torah — a period dedicated to reflection, growth and renewal — may these daily stories inspire us to live lives of purpose, courage, kindness and responsibility. In remembering them, we recommit ourselves to the ideals for which they stood.
Rabbi Shua SolomonPresident, Rabbinical Council of NSW
Foreword by Major General (Res.) Doron Almog
“The purpose of remembrance is not only to look back, but to carry with us the stories of those who gave their most precious gift for the State of Israel and the Jewish People… From pain grows the commitment to choose life, to choose action, and to choose Arvut Hadadit— mutual responsibility. When, each day, we pause to learn about a soldier and the values that guided them, we give them a living place in the heart of the community and connect the next generation to a legacy of courage, generosity, and love for the Nation and the Land of Israel.”
Major General (Res.) Doron Almog · Chairman of the Executive, The Jewish Agency for Israel
The digital journey
The printed calendar dedicates each day to one fallen hero — their photograph, their defining words, their approved story, and two questions for reflection. This website adds a human voice: each day, a rabbi, educator, or Jewish leader from somewhere in the world records a short video reflection on that hero’s legacy — a shared daily experience of remembrance and inspiration for families, schools, synagogues, and communities everywhere.
Every hero’s page also connects to their personal legacy page on the “Drishat Shalom” website, where you can learn more, engage in specific acts of kindness, and contact the family.
The project
Legacies of Light is a project of the Rabbinical Council of NSW. With thanks to ZCNSW, Mizrachi, and the Afikim Foundation for their support, and to our publishing partner The Toby Press, an imprint of Koren Publishers Jerusalem.
All heroes featured are included by permission of their families, who provided the photographs and treasured memories. Our deepest thanks go to these beloved families — it is our greatest honor to perpetuate their legacies. Yehi Zikhram Barukh.
Editor-in-Chief: Leron Bernstein · Writers: Yossi Suede, Chagit Moses · Cover image: Tani Bayer. With thanks to Rabbi Butler and the Afikim Foundation, whose partnership produced the first edition of “Legacies of Light” in the United States, and to Hilma, Yad L’Banim, and the “Drishat Shalom” team.