Member of Knesset Osnat Mark during a Tu b’Shevat visit at the Oz veGaon preserve: This place where life was cut short, where they tried to extinguish our spirit – this is a place for planting, flourishing and renewal
MK Osnat Mark of the Likud visited the Oz veGaon preserve on Tu b’Shevat, which links planting and agriculture with vision and sovereignty.
At the end of the visit MK Mark posted these words on her Facebook page:
“When you come to the Land and plant any kind of fruit tree…” (Leviticus 19:23)
One of the first commandments that the People of Israel were given as we entered the promised Land is to plant trees. There are many spiritual and material aspects to the planting of trees. It symbolizes laying down roots and clinging to the soil.
Planting trees is considered equivalent to settling the Land. This is why I was so moved to keep the commandment today by planting a grapevine on the hill of Oz veGaon, which was founded in Gush Etzion in memory of the sons who were murdered here, Eyal Yifrah, Gil-ad Sha’er and Naftali Frenkel, Hy”d.
This place, where life was cut short, this place where they tried to extinguish our spirit – is a place of planting, growth and renewal. This is our answer to those who wish us evil. Planting, settling, growth.
Heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part on this inspiring day. Yehudit and Benny Katsover, Nadia Matar, Council Head Shlomo Ne’eman, the management of Route 60 in the Likud and special thanks to my friend Oshrit Sitbon, for her faithful assistance.
Next year, may it be attended by many people and in good health.