Elisha Turner, a reserve soldier, survived a violent ambush near Tekoa while establishing Zohar Yehuda Farm in the Judean Desert. Rather than being deterred, Turner and his wife Shachar turned the experience into a mission to reinforce Jewish presence in the region. Over the past two years, their farm has grown into a center for renewed settlement, agriculture, and community life, including the construction of new farms and a synagogue.

The Turners and their group of pioneers have transformed the landscape, establishing new neighborhoods and encouraging families and youth to settle in the area. Their efforts aim to counter growing encroachment and restore the Judean Desert to Jewish hands through daily work and faith. Zohar Yehuda Farm is now launching a crowdfunding campaign to expand its activities, inviting supporters to help plant trees, build farms, and secure the eastern frontier of Jerusalem.

Elisha Turner calls for partnership rather than sympathy, emphasizing that every contribution strengthens the community and deepens roots in the land. The campaign seeks to ensure the future of the Judean Desert as a vibrant center of Jewish life and security.