“AMEN SONGS”: Am Israel Chai (Eyal Golan)

Eyal Golan’s “Am Yisrael Chai” is a stirring anthem of unity, resilience, and unwavering faith in the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Released in a time of national struggle and global uncertainty, the song became an instant rallying cry, echoing across Israel and Jewish communities worldwide. Its lyrics affirm that “the people of eternity never fear,” even in darkness and uncertainty, and that as long as we remain united, “Am Yisrael Chai”—the people of Israel lives. The message is both defiant and hopeful, rooted in a deep sense of peoplehood and purpose. This makes it an especially fitting reflection for Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day, when we celebrate the miraculous rebirth of a sovereign Jewish state and the continued strength of our nation, despite the unrelenting challenges we face.

The song’s central message—that God watches over us, that we are not alone, and that our strength lies in unity—embodies the essence of “Amen – Be a Blessing.” To live as a blessing means to stand together, to lift one another up during hardship, and to never give in to despair. Golan’s lyrics offer a prayer for peace, for the return of our soldiers, and for better days ahead. In that prayer is both realism and hope. We are reminded that our joy on Yom Ha’atzmaut is not naïve—it is hard-won, born from sacrifice, and sustained by faith. As we sing in the streets, in our homes, or in quiet reflection, “Am Yisrael Chai” becomes not just a statement, but a sacred commitment to one another and to the future of the Jewish people.

While Parashat Tazria-Metzora focuses on the ancient laws of purity, illness, and reintegration into the community, its underlying theme is one of restoration and return. Those afflicted with tzara’at were temporarily separated, but never forgotten. They were eventually welcomed back, healed and whole. In this light, “Am Yisrael Chai” echoes a similar national and spiritual yearning: for the return of the exiled, the healing of wounds, and the restoration of peace. Whether through physical recovery, emotional resilience, or national strength, the song—and this moment in the Jewish calendar—urges us to celebrate life, to hold fast to our people, and to affirm that even in our hardest hours, we are not alone, and we will rise again—together.