Ben Binyamin Cohen

From Beit Hashmonai. The youngest son in his family.

Our light-bringer — a man of justice and love — you could see it in his eyes. He was compassionate toward people and animals alike. He raised a dog and a rabbit under the same roof, and remarkably, they truly got along.

Ben had an entrepreneurial and practical mind. He possessed great wisdom, deep sensitivity to his surroundings, and a well-developed sense of humor. He knew how to laugh at himself, to lighten the moment, and to bring joy to those around him. Ben explored the universe with wonder. He bought a telescope and loved gazing at the stars, marveling at their vastness, certain that somewhere out there, other life must exist.

A true artist, he worked skillfully with his hands and body. He snowboarded faithfully, never missing the rare two days of snow each year on Mount Hermon, and traveled abroad for ski vacations.

He nurtured the garden with devotion — preparing cuttings, selecting fertilizers — and it flourished beautifully. He also worked in construction and renovations, bringing with him broad knowledge and understanding in the field.

He was murdered at the age of 27, together with four of his beloved friends at the Nova festival on October 7, 2023, at 08:11 a.m., on Re’im Bridge along Highway 232.

Now we carry and spread the light — our own and Ben’s. Our light has doubled. We miss him beyond measure.

All of you, your entire being, remains a part of us forever. We are eternally connected and bound to one another.

May his memory be a blessing.