After Release, Agam Berger Visits Joseph’s Tomb to Pray for Soldiers

Recently freed hostage Agam Berger made an emotional visit to Joseph’s Tomb in Nablus on Sunday night, offering prayers for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces and for the safe return of those still held in captivity. Berger, a Nahal Oz observer who was held hostage in Gaza for 482 days, was accompanied by her mother, Meirav, along with Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan and Rabbi Elyakim Levanon. The group was escorted by IDF and security forces.

At the sacred site, Berger lit a candle in remembrance and was presented with a certificate by Dagan featuring the words: “I chose the path of faith” a phrase taken from her first words upon being freed.

“Agam Berger, with your unshakable faith, you preserved the Jewish spirit,” the certificate read. “With your strength, you uplifted an entire generation. With your determination, you gave the people of Israel courage and hope.”

Dagan also gifted Berger a prayer book engraved with her name, telling her, “Agam, you symbolize faith. You don’t know how much the people of Israel love and admire you. You remained steadfast in your Jewish identity, keeping kosher and upholding Jewish dignity in impossible conditions. Even those barbarians respected you for it.”

The visit to Joseph’s Tomb carried profound symbolism. Dagan likened Berger’s journey to that of Joseph the Righteous, who was thrown into a pit but later rose to greatness. “Your presence here is deeply moving,” he said.

Rabbi Levanon blessed Berger and her mother, praying for the return of all hostages and Israel’s victory. “May you be a messenger for the people of Israel, bringing good news and seeing the good in everyone,” he said.

Meirav Berger shared how she had twice attempted to visit Joseph’s Tomb since October 7 but had been unable to do so. “Today, it finally happened,” she said. “It feels like Joseph the Righteous invited you, Agam, so we could come here together and pray for the redemption of the people of Israel.”

Reflecting on her daughter’s captivity and the families still waiting for their loved ones, Meirav emphasized the importance of unity. “I came here to pray for our brothers to return home to their families. Family is a sacred value, and Agam deeply missed her family in captivity. We must return to our roots, see ourselves as one family, and bring the hostages back.”

Shortly after her release from Gaza, during her transit back to Israeli territory via IDF helicopter, Berger wrote on a board: “I chose the path of faith, and through faith, I have returned. Thank you to all the people of Israel and the heroic soldiers of the IDF there is no one like you in the world!”

Agam Berger’s visit to Joseph’s Tomb is a powerful reminder of faith, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between the people of Israel. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates to honor her journey and to stand in unity with those still waiting for their loved ones to return home.