The Remarkable Story of Israeli Hostage Eliah Cohen
The ongoing crisis of Israeli hostages held in Gaza has gripped the nation and the world, but few stories are as powerful as that of Eliah Cohen. Held hostage for 505 days, Eliah experienced what he described as “hell on earth”yet even in captivity, he held fiercely to prayer, hope, and faith.
In the video above, Eliah shares how he survived, how he supported others imprisoned with him, and why his journey is now inspiring a spiritual awakening across Israel.
Faith Behind Bars: How an Israeli Hostage Found Strength in Captivity
Despite being held in brutal conditions, Eliah prayed every day. With no physical religious items, he pretended to put on Tefilin, observed Shabbat in whatever way he could, and spoke directly to God. His faith became his anchor and a lifeline for other Israeli hostages who struggled to maintain hope.
What makes his story even more striking is that Eliah does not “look religious.” Covered in tattoos and not outwardly observant, he represents thousands of Israelis who are reconnecting to their roots in unexpected ways. His experience shows that spirituality is not about appearance, it is about the heart.
Helping Fellow Israeli Hostages Reconnect to Prayer
Eliah became a spiritual pillar for others in captivity. He encouraged fellow hostages to pray, to speak with God, and to believe that rescue would come. For many, these moments of connection were the only source of strength they had left.
His testimony gives the world a rare window into the emotional and spiritual resilience of Israeli hostages, a dimension often overlooked in news coverage.
The Return of the Israeli Hostages and the Spiritual Awakening in Israel
As more Israeli hostages return home, something profound is happening across the country. Families, communities, and even secular Israelis are experiencing a renewed sense of unity, faith, and meaning.
Eliah’s story has become a symbol of this national shift:
More Israelis are returning to prayer.
Shabbat observance is rising, even among secular families.
People are connecting with Torah, tradition, and deeper spiritual identity.
The nation is coming together in ways not seen in years.
The suffering of every Israeli hostage has opened a spiritual door—one that is inspiring thousands to seek light, healing, and connection.
Watch the Full Testimony
In the video above, Eliah Cohen tells his story in his own words:
how he survived, how he kept faith alive, and how his journey is now influencing Israel’s spiritual landscape.
Watch, share, and help raise awareness for the remaining Israeli hostages and their families.
