IDF Chief Cantor Lt. Col. Shai Abramson and the military cantors sing last stanza of 'Maoz Tzur'
The chief cantor of the Israel Defense Forces, Lt. Col. Shai Abramson, has been swinging between deep sadness and joy lately. Along with the many funerals he attends, he is also invited to impromptu and exciting "war weddings." At the same time, he also continues to visit the wounded and evacuees, and perform for soldiers in military staging areas and bases. When possible, he also goes to concerts of salute and solidarity with Israel in Jewish communities in Europe and the United States.
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"In all my years as the chief cantor of the IDF, I have never experienced such a powerful whirlwind of emotions. I feel like I'm on a roller coaster with ups and great excitement and downs into the abyss terrible sadness," he said. "That's why it's so important, more than at any other time, to stay in constant action, to find the bright spots and strengths that we have, reveal and strengthen them. Everyone in their field can help in the campaign which is not only military but also informational. We must expand the circles of support and identification with Israel and, in the spirit of Hanukkah, we must continue to ignite the flame of the Jewish spirit."
On Wednesday morning, Abramson released a new music video which he dedicates to his friends the military cantors from the military rabbinical burial system.
"These are dear and beloved people, who do true kindness, accompany the bereaved families in the most difficult moments, at funerals and memorials," he says. "These friends are busy day and night with work that cannot be grasped, with infinite sensitivity and professionalism. I salute you my dear friends and comrades - the military cantors, and cherish your work with great appreciation and eyes filled with tears."
"May we shine the light over the darkness," he concludes.