It has taken me several days to understand what I want to say about Ilan Ramon. Beyond the traditional role of Western hero ­ the adventuring astronaut who embodies the Western world's idea of courage, someone who dares to pioneer the limits of human understanding and human capability--there was something more. It is that "more" that has been so hard to define.

But finally, I think I do understand. The Jewish people sent Ilan Ramon as its representative, to join hands with the world in exploring a new frontier for the betterment and enlightenment of mankind. Despite the Holocaust, in which the Jewish people were separated, vilified, brutalized and condemned, Ilan allowed us to reach out to the world, to our fellow men, to be part of the striving towards common good.

Whatever the distances between ourselves in Israel and our Jewish brethren abroad, every Jew knew Ilan Ramon represented him, or her. He made us all so very proud.

He wasn't religious, but he asked for kosher food. He asked a Rabbi what time the Sabbath would come in and go out in space. He brought aboard a Torah scroll, and the picture of a young Holocaust victim, who could only stare behind electrified fences at the stars. He went into space as a Jew and as an Israeli who fought to protect the Jewish homeland; a pilot in the air force that destroyed Saddam Hussein's nuclear reactor, before it could destroy us, and the rest of the world. He united every Jew, reminding us all of our shared culture, our history, that which connects us. And in so doing, he reached out the hand of our people towards mankind for the good.

The Jews of Israel have suffered indescribable losses. After two years of Intifada, that have brought the Jewish people once again face to face with the worst instincts to kill and be killed, the sickening lies of hate-filled propaganda -- Ilan Ramon lifted our minds and hearts, carrying them with him as he flew towards heaven.

May G-d grant him great heavenly reward for sanctifying the name of G-d and the Jewish people.