When Jacob arrives in Beit El, the city near which his grandfather Abraham called out to God for the first time in the Land of Israel (Genesis 12:8), he recognizes it's unique spiritual character. Beit El, which means, “the house of the Lord,” appears throughout the Bible as a special location for prayer. Just as a home protects its inhabitants from the physical elements, such as harsh weather conditions, “the house of the Lord” acts as a spiritual safe haven, protecting its inhabitants from both physical and spiritual danger. This Biblical city demonstrated its unique spiritual standing last week, as the IDF was miraculously successful in foiling a planned terror attack on the city. When the security situation in Israel appears quiet, it is not due to the enemy's lack of effort. Rather, the safety and security we enjoy in Israel is thanks to the diligent and tireless efforts of Israel's security forces.
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