This presentation opened with a reflection regarding the way that the presence of Jews as soldiers (and policemen) is taken for granted in Israel.

Another point made was the casual manner in which Israelis relate to the idea of the Jewish boy or girl who goes off to military service at the age of eighteen.

Yet, as has been mentioned, this is a relatively new phenomenon and a revolutionary development in Jewish history.

Another idea brought was the positive nature of the change – the idea that Jews are now capable, as never before, of defending themselves against would-be aggressors, no longer needing to rely on others to protect them – although here in Israel we are well aware of the need for political allies in our struggle for normal existence.

These are surely positive developments: the Jew is no longer defenceless – the Jew can take responsibility for his or her own existence.

A closing reflection of a different nature, however, leads to the presentation of the final dichotomy:

Whatever pride we might have in the existence or achievements of a strong Israeli military force – one, it should be said, that attempts to act according to a moral code, even when circumstances are against it – let us also be aware of the essential sadness of the situation.

Circumstances and a cruel, cruel world have forced Israel to build a younger generation that needs to apply much of its energies and abilities to the arts of war. We have created a generation unprecedented in Jewish history, one that knows violence and cruelty - sees it and experiences it on a regular basis - and learns to fight against them.

How sad it is that they must fight.
How fortunate we are as a nation, that they do.