The Jewish community of Rostov-on-Don, headed by Rabbi Chaim Danziger, welcomed a new Torah scroll this past week. The Torah scroll was completed on 2 Nissan, the yahrtzeit of the fifth Lubavitcher Rebbe, the Rebbe Rashab, who lived the last years of his life in this Russian city.
The beautiful new Torah was donated by Hong Kong businessman Isaac Kamhin and his family in honor of his in-laws, Avraham and Badriyeh Shammah. Mr. Kamhin traveled from Hong Kong with his son Moish and 8-year-old grandson Ziki to participate in this remarkable event. They were joined by his brother-in-law, Morris Shammah of New York. Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar joined the community for the gala celebration welcoming the new Torah.
The final letters in the Torah scroll were inscribed in the school’s auditorium. Notwithstanding overcast weather conditions, a huge crowd gathered to accompany the Torah procession through the streets, which were blocked from traffic by local police. A live band performed Jewish music and students carried lit torches as local citizens and bystanders took pictures of this unique occurrence.
The synagogue hosted a festive banquet with esteemed community members in honor of the momentous occasion of acquiring a new Torah scroll and Rabbi Lazar’s visit. Rabbi Danzinger expressed his deep appreciation for Mr. Kamhin and family for their exceptional gift to the Rostov community and thanked Rabbi Lazar for his tremendous ongoing moral support and financial assistance.
“I can’t believe I’m seeing the police holding back traffic, so that Jews can dance with the Torah in the streets of Rostov!” exclaimed Anton Morduchaev, a young medical student. The Jewish community was honored to welcome guests from other cities, including Rabbi Ramy Banin of Venice, Italy; Rabbi Getzy Markowitz, a personal friend of the Kamhin family; Rabbi Levi Stiefel of Woronezh; Rabbi Mendy Zaklas of Bryansk; Rabbi Shmulik Ahronov of Kfar Chabad, and Chief Rabbi of Stavropol Alexander Nesterov.
Rabbi Lazar led a recital of Psalms and explained the meaning and significance of the traditions involved in a yahrzeit. The lively hakafos in the synagogue and Rabbi Lazar's meaningful words and fascinating stories inspired everyone. Moish Kamhin added to the joyous atmosphere, leading singing and dancing. Mr. Kamhin addressed the crowd with moving words, explaining, “I thought life in Hong Kong was challenging, but I am amazed to see the true love for Jewish traditions that is apparent among Jews living in Rostov and their enthusiasm and confidence. I thank you for giving me the opportunity to donate a Sefer Torah to Rostov on this special date.”
During his visit to Rostov, Rabbi Lazar visited the local Ohr Avner Chabad Day School and personally tested children on their knowledge of Aleph Beis and the upcoming Passover holiday, noting that he was impressed by their understanding and knowledge. The children were thrilled and motivated by their illustrious guest.
The Jewish Community of Rostov – a member of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia – radiated Jewish pride and simcha in this unforgettable Torah celebration.