Hadas Loewenstern Is Engaged To Hod Reichert
In a poignant story of resilience and renewal, Hadas Loewenstern, widow of fallen IDF reservist Rabbi Elisha Loewenstern, and Hod Reichert, who lost his wife during childbirth, have found love again.
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In the shadow of war and loss, a story of hope and renewal emerges from the heart of Israel. Hadas Loewenstern, the widow of Rabbi Elisha Loewenstern, who heroically fell during a rescue mission in Gaza on December 13, 2023, has found love again.
Elisha, a 38-year-old American-Israeli reservist, was struck by an anti-tank missile while attempting to save wounded soldiers, leaving behind Hadas and their six children, the youngest just 11 months old and the oldest preparing for his bar mitzvah. Hadas has since become a symbol of strength, her viral video tribute echoing with determination: “We plan on living such a wonderful life that the bad guys will never merit to live.”
Chabad.org, in its February 13, 2024, article, painted a picture of a family grounded in hospitality and giving, even as Elisha made brief returns home during the conflict. “Though Elisha is no longer with them, Hadas wants her and the children to continue being a happy, giving family,” the piece noted, highlighting their Shabbat traditions that welcomed guests, embodying a lifestyle of generosity. Aish.com, in its December 10, 2024, feature, delved deeper into Hadas’ mission, describing her as a “beacon of strength and hope.” The article quoted her expressing a profound faith: “I understand that I don’t understand. I understand that God has His own plan. And this is my deal with Him: You give me the strength, and I will try to make the entire Jewish world love You more, believe in You more. And this is what keeps me alive.”
Hod Reichert’s journey mirrors Hadas’ in its tragedy. Hagit Reichart, his wife, passed away a little over half a year ago due to complications during the birth of their daughter, after days of critical hospitalization. Hadas and Hod are both residents of Harish, a city that has seen its share of sorrow amidst the Iron Swords War.
Their engagement, announced via a WhatsApp status from Hod, reads with a mix of humor and heartfelt gratitude: “The work of the righteous is done by others… The truth is, we planned to announce our engagement on the night of the 9th of Av, but due to your overwhelming love, your hearts ran ahead and beat us to it. So, let’s make a fuss.” It’s a moment of joy, tinged with the weight of their pasts, yet embraced with a resolve to move forward.
