Heat the olive oil in a large 12'' saucepan or skillet (make sure it has a tight-fitting lid). Once hot, add the chopped onion and saute until soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
Add the grated garlic, tomato paste, and all the spices to the pan, stirring until incorporated, then cook for 1 minute more.
Add the rinsed lentils to the pan, then carefully pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then add in the 2 bay leaves and bring everything to a simmer.
Once bubbling, place the lid on the pan and adjust the heat to low. Allow it to cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the water is absorbed and the lentils are tender. Add more water as needed if the sauce becomes too thick.
Once the lentils are cooked, use a spoon to make 6 to 7 wells into the sauce and carefully crack an egg in each one.
Cover the saucepan with the lid and allow the eggs to cook for around 7-8 minutes, until the whites are set. The yolks should be cooked just under your liking, as the residual heat will continue to cook the eggs as it sits.
Remove the pan from the heat, garnish with za'atar, feta, and fresh lemon juice (if desired), then serve warm with toast.