Survivor Emily Damari at the Western Wall: “In the Darkness and Isolation, I Had One Moment of Light”

The Western Wall, last remnant of the Jewish holy Temple, has witnessed countless tears of prayer and longing, down through the generations. On Monday, it witnessed instead tears of joy and gratitude, when hostage survivor Emily Damari came to give thanks in Jerusalem.

During her visit, Emily stood beside the stones of the Western Wall—a place that served as a source of hope even in her darkest hours—and, overwhelmed with emotion, recited the blessing of Birkat HaGomel, the Jewish blessing recited after deliverance from danger, giving thanks for her life. She also recited Mizmor LeTodah (Psalm of Thanksgiving) from the Book of Psalms, in praise and with gratitude for the miracle of her release.

A Moment of Light

The hostage survivor shared, “In the darkness and isolation, I had one moment of light. On the night before Yom Kippur, (the holiest day in the Jewish calendar) I managed to listen to the radio. I was deeply moved to hear the traditional Selichot prayers being broadcast from the Western Wall and the prayers being recited there on our behalf. It gave me strength. It gave me hope.”

Watch Emily recite the blessing at the Western Wall:

Video: The Western Wall Heritage Foundation