In Judaism, a Kiddush Hashem is a sanctification of G-d’s name. Any action by a Jew that brings honor, respect, and glory to G-d is considered to be sanctification of His name.
I mention this in relation to the below CNN interview with Israeli Commander Col. Golan Vach, who is in Miami aiding local rescue units in the search for survivors of the building collapse in Surfside. The words Kiddush Hashem really come to mind, not just with Col. Vach and his rescue unit’s actions, but the way in which he speaks.
Notice how after Col. Vach says “We found some more people,” the CNN reporter corrects him with “You found more bodies” – to which Col. Vach responds deliberately with “We found people, unfortunately they are not alive.” By answering thus, Col. Vach demonstrates the value we place on human life. These were not just bodies, but valuable people who lost their lives.
And I am not the only one who noticed this:
Later on, Col. Vach makes sure to give credit to all those taking part in the rescue effort, and not just the Israelis – again, showing the proper way to act and bringing about a Kiddush Hashem.
I couldn’t be a prouder Israeli and Jew watching this.
