I’m writing from Yerushalayim Ir HaKodesh, where the hills seem to wrap around the city in a quiet embrace. This posuk takes on new meaning, coming alive:ירושלים הרים סביב לה — Yerushalayim is surrounded by mountains.

It feels less like geography and more like a holy hug. The city is physically embraced — but the emotional comfort requires our presence. She waits not only to be held, but to be heard.

This week’s haftarah begins with that call — not just to comfort, but to bring heart:

נחמו נחמו עמי יאמר אלוקיכם

דברו על לב ירושלים וקראו אליה

“Comfort, comfort My people” says your G-d. “Speak to the heart of Yerushalayim”.

The verse doesn’t say “speak to the heart,” but “על הלב” — upon the heart. When the heart is too broken to take in words, comfort can still rest gently upon it, waiting until it is ready. Real consolation doesn’t force its way in. It lingers — soft, steady, and patient.

Since October 7, Am Yisrael has been living with raw pain. Hearts are still broken — from grief, fear, and the weight of uncertainty. Families mourn. Soldiers stand guard. Communities hold one another together.

And yet, just as Yerushalayim is held by her hills and comforted by a calm that holds space for love, we too are surrounded — by community, by resilience. But the embrace is not enough. The haftorah reminds us to show up with heart — to speak gently, listen deeply, and offer comfort that is real and lasting.

May we feel the hug of Yerushalayim’s hills around us, and may we bring our hearts to comfort her in return. May Hashem’s compassion rest gently upon us, and may we soon see the day when all of Am Yisrael is truly consoled —with peace, with hope, and with love.