Faith on the frontlines – the IDF’s spiritual revolution

Research conducted by psychologists at Hebrew University revealed that approximately 50% of surveyed Israelis reported a change in their spiritual attitudes since the onset of the recent war.

By Hezy Laing

When the body of the last IDF soldier was recovered from Gaza – the IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said the Shechiyanu prayer which one recites upon a momentous occasion.

The moment was symbolic of a much greater change the IDF has been undergoing.

A noticeable spiritual awakening has been unfolding within the IDF in recent years, and it has intensified since the events of October 7.

A broad cultural and emotional movement in which soldiers, commanders, and entire units are reconnecting with Jewish identity, heritage, and a sense of collective purpose.

In moments of national crisis, many soldiers describe feeling part of something larger than themselves, and this sentiment has translated into visible practices on bases, in the field, and even on the front lines.

One major driver of this awakening is the sense of unity that emerged after the attacks.

Soldiers from secular, traditional, and religious backgrounds found themselves fighting side by side, sharing rituals that previously belonged to only part of the population.

The IDF has always been a melting pot, but the shared trauma and shared mission have deepened the spiritual dimension of service.

In multiple brigades—including Golani and Paratroopers—hundreds of soldiers have voluntarily gathered for evening prayers, singing psalms together before entering Gaza.

Videos of these moments circulated widely, showing secular soldiers participating with emotion and pride.

Research conducted by psychologists at Hebrew University revealed that approximately 50% of surveyed Israelis reported a change in their spiritual attitudes since the onset of the recent war.

A quarter of respondents indicated they had become “more religious,” while a third reported increased spiritual engagement.

Military rabbis have reported unprecedented numbers of soldiers—many who had never worn tefillin before—asking to put them on before battle. In some staging zones, long lines formed at dawn.

Several battalion and brigade commanders have incorporated short spiritual reflections or words of heritage into pre‑mission briefings. These aren’t religious instructions but reminders of history, identity, and the values they are defending.

After losing comrades, units have increasingly turned to traditional Jewish mourning practices—lighting candles, reciting Psalms, and sharing stories—regardless of the religious background of the fallen.

These rituals have helped soldiers process grief and strengthen bonds.

Many combat soldiers now sport a patch on their arms of the Jewish Temple – which Judaism believes will be rebuilt.

The move comes as a direct response to seeing how widely pictures of the Dome of the Rock were displayed in Gaza homes – to remind Muslims what they were fighting for.

Together, these developments reflect a deeper search for meaning, resilience, and connection. In a time of profound challenge, many IDF soldiers are finding strength not only in training and camaraderie but also in a renewed sense of spiritual identity.