New Torah Scroll in Jerusalem Dedicated to Gaza Hostages

Hundreds gathered in Jerusalem for a poignant ceremony celebrating the completion of a Torah scroll dedicated to the hostages still held in Gaza. The event, filled with emotion and hope, was spearheaded by Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, parents of hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin, as part of their Week of Goodness initiative to raise awareness about the hostages.

Scribe Akiva Garber meticulously wrote the concluding 120 words of the scroll, with each word symbolizing a hostage in Gaza. This act of devotion underscored the deep connection between the community and those still waiting to return home.

Once the final words were inscribed, Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg-Polin carried the scroll down Yehuda Street in Baka, beneath a wedding canopy, symbolizing a journey of faith and unity. The scroll's final destination was Hakhel Minyan Shivyoni, the couple’s congregation.

In an address to the participants, Rachel Goldberg-Polin recalled, “The last time I stood in this courtyard was on October 6, when we celebrated with the Hakhel community. We danced with the Torah. My plan was to return the next morning, but that was not to be.”

Reflecting on the significance of the ceremony, she continued, “Now here we are. I am looking at this moment as completing the cycle of what was stolen from us. We will complete what we started. But how can we say the prayer with intention and meaning when our hearts are broken? Because we still see kindness, love, and blessings. We have been cared for and nurtured and loved. We will say it from our bruised hearts.”

As the Torah scroll reached its new home, it was unrolled, and the couple recited the “Shehechyanu” blessing, marking the occasion with a prayer of gratitude for new beginnings. This moment symbolized not just the completion of the scroll, but the community's unwavering hope and commitment to the hostages' return.

The Torah scroll completion marked the culmination of Goldberg-Polin’s Week of Goodness campaign, which ran from July 14 to 21. The campaign encouraged participants to perform good deeds in honor of the hostages, fostering a spirit of unity and compassion.

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