Written by Naomi Shemer at the beginning of the Yom Kippur War as a prayer that the soldiers would return home in peace, this song captured the emotions of an entire nation. Although it was originally meant to be a Hebrew adaptation of the Beatles’ song, «Let It Be,» Shemer ultimately decided to compose an original melody for the lyrics. An English translation of the lyrics can be seen onscreen and below, along with the Hebrew chorus. For complete Hebrew lyrics, click here.
לו יהי, לו יהי
אנא — לו יהי
כל שנבקש לו יהי
All We Pray For (Lu Yehi)
There is still a white sail on the horizon
Opposite a heavy black cloud
All that we ask for — may it be
And if in the evening windows
The light of the holiday candles flickers
All that we seek — may it be
May it be, may it be — Please — may it be
All that we seek — may it be.
What is the sound that I hear
The cry of the shofar and the sound of drums
All that we ask for — may it be
If only there can be heard within all this
One prayer from my lips also
All that we seek — may it be
May it be…
Within a small, shaded neighborhood
Is a small house with a red roof
All that we ask for, may it be
This is the end of summer, the end of the path
Allow them to return safely here
All that we seek, may it be
May it be…
And if suddenly, rising from the darkness
Over our heads, the light of a star shines
All that we ask for, may it be
Then grant tranquility and also grant strength
To all those we love
All that we seek, may it be
May it be…