Israel’s military spokespeople have labeled the current military operation in Gaza as “Operation Pillar of Defense” in English and other foreign languages. But in Hebrew, the operation is actually codenamed “Pillar of Cloud.”
The reason for the discrepancy may be that the IDF doesn’t think most foreigners will catch the biblical reference. But, of course, that is not true of Israel Today readers.
As nearly all are aware, Pillar of Cloud is a reference to the divine pillar of cloud that guided the Children of Israel during their exodus from Egypt, as described in the Book of Exodus.
It is the hope and prayer of many Israelis, and many of those supporting Israel from abroad, that our government and army will have similar guidance in waging an effective war against the enemy in Gaza, while avoiding as much as possible the inflicting of pain and suffering on the civilians of Gaza.
