A few days ago I had the privilege of speaking to more than 100,000 South Africans in the National Day of Prayer at FNB Stadium. 

The moment reveals something profound about the soul of the real South Africa.

What I experienced was profoundly moving: the warmth of the crowd, the shared spirit of prayer, and the deep sense of unity that filled the stadium.

And I felt something else: the genuine love and respect towards the South African Jewish community. Because we stand for the same values: faith, family, moral clarity, compassion, community.

What happened in the stadium is a small part of something much larger. It reflects the real spirit of this country.

National surveys from the Social Research Foundation, under the leadership of Dr Frans Cronje, show that the overwhelming majority of South Africans share the very values that build thriving societies. Values that are also at the heart of Jewish life, and at the heart of the free world.

In my address, I spoke of our shared biblical heritage: the words of Isaiah, the Psalms, and the covenantal promise to Abraham: "Those who bless you will be blessed." The crowd immediately recognised and embraced these verses. Their response was powerful and heartfelt. This is a message of hope, dignity, unity and of the powerful future we can build when we stand together.

KEY INSIGHTS

• South Africa is united by shared moral values: faith, family, community, and compassion.

• The warmth toward the Jewish community reflects a deep national bond.

• Biblical values remain alive in the hearts of millions of South Africans.

• National surveys confirm: the majority of South Africans aspire to moderation, respect, and moral clarity.

• The Day of Prayer reveals the true spirit of the nation. It is far stronger than politics or division.

• Our shared values form the foundation for South Africa's future.

• When people of faith stand together, they can shape a new national destiny.