Shofar: A Symbol of Faith and Healing

The shofar, crafted from a ram’s horn, holds deep significance in Jewish culture. It serves both as a symbol of divine majesty and a call to repentance. During Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, the shofar acts as a spiritual alarm, prompting a return to our core values. Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, uses the shofar to mark the end of fasting, praying that we are inscribed in the Book of Life for a prosperous year.

In THE ANGELS AMONG US, a book by Dr. Marc Siegel, the shofar is used by a divine messenger to aid in the miraculous recovery of Nikki Goldstein, a journalist from Sydney, Australia. At 57, Goldstein suffers from chronic lung disease and an autoimmune disorder, frequently landing her in the hospital. By September 2022, her condition reaches a dire point. A CT scan shows severe lung issues and she is placed on a ventilator, expected not to survive. Facing this, she entrusts her fate to God as her doctor adds her to the emergency lung transplant list.

In a pivotal moment, her family encounters Rabbi Eli Schlanger at Bondi Beach’s Chabad synagogue. Despite not being Jewish, Nikki’s husband, Rowan, requests prayers. Rabbi Schlanger, known for his bushy beard and warm presence, agrees and recites prayers at Nikki’s bedside. Before leaving, the rabbi offers to blow the shofar. Rowan consents, thinking Nikki would appreciate it deeply.

Rabbi Eli blows the shofar loudly, an ancient symbol of faith and hope.

A remarkable change occurs within 24 hours. Goldstein’s lungs begin to heal, her condition improves significantly, and she emerges from a coma, recognized as a medical miracle. She later collaborates with Rabbi Schlanger on a book, Conversations With My Rabbi.

On December 14, 2025, during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, tragedy strikes. Two gunmen launch a terrorist attack. Schlanger, a courageous father of five, confronts the assailants, urging peace. Despite his pleas, one gunman fires, resulting in Rabbi Schlanger’s death, though his family survives.

Another anecdote involves Dr. Siegel’s daughter, who meets a rabbi hospitalized after a minor stroke, triggered while blowing the shofar. This incident leads to the discovery of his underlying health issues, ultimately saving his life.

The shofar traces back to its original mention at Mount Sinai, announcing the Ten Commandments to the Israelites. Its enduring presence continues to elicit inspiration and healing.

Editor’s note: Dr. Marc Siegel’s book, THE ANGELS AMONG US, will release on November 18, 2026. Preorders are available through Fox Books, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.