Prayer For Israel

I was asked to give the Prayer for Israel this Shabbat at a the downtown minyan. The person who asked me knows my views on Israel. Here is what I plan to deliver.

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Rock of Israel, and her redeemer, please bless the People Israel wherever they may be. Guard us, in the abundance of your love; Spread over us the shelter of your peace. Send forth your light and truth to those who lead and judge us, and to those who hold official office. Establish in them, through your presence, wise counsel, that they – and all your People - might walk in the ways of justice, freedom and integrity.  Strengthen the hands of those who guard and protect us. Let them inherit salvation and life. May all your People everywhere engage in mutual kindness;  May they support each other zealously as needed, and rebuke each other lovingly as required.

Bless the Land of Israel and all its inhabitants.  May they be privileged to see peace, prosperity and brotherhood come to the land. May the leaders of the land, and all its communities, promote trust, cooperation and justice and may they be worthy of the heavy responsibilities placed on them. May they be inspired by your Torah – to learn that right makes might, that security requires justice, and that happiness and fulfillment come from walking humbly in your ways. May it truly be so.

Cause your spirit’s influence to emanate upon all dwellers of our holy land. Remove from their midst hatred and enmity, jealousy and wickedness. Plant in their hearts love and kinship, peace and friendship. And soon fulfill the vision of your prophet: “Let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.” And then let peace and liberty reign throughout the land.

May it be so for the Land of Israel, for your People Israel and for all your Peoples throughout the world.

And let us say, Amen.