In a remarkable display of unity and spiritual joy, thousands of Jews from across Moscow gathered at the MTS Hall—the city’s largest event venue—for the central Chasidic gathering in honor of the 19th of Kislev, the date marking the liberation of Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the founder of Chabad Chassidism and disciple of the Maggid of Mezrich, from czarist imprisonment.
Reflecting the continued expansion of Jewish life and institutions in Russia’s capital, the event drew a wide and diverse audience—from community rabbis and leaders to members of the broader Jewish public. Inspired by Rabbi Shneur Zalman’s promise of blessings to those who rejoice in his redemption, participants arrived from all corners of the city.
Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar opened the evening with words of inspiration, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Chassidic teachings in bringing true joy to one’s service of G-d. Quoting the Alter Rebbe, he noted that only through deep reflection and study of Torah’s inner dimensions can a Jew attain this spiritual joy.
The evening featured a musical program led by renowned Mizrachi singer R’ Moshe Louk and his choir. A special presentation reviewed the historical activities of Chabad emissaries among Sephardic communities throughout the former Soviet Union.
Guest of honor Rabbi David Yosef, Rishon LeZion and Chief Rabbi of Israel, traveled specially to attend the celebration. In his address, he emphasized that the 19th of Kislev is not a holiday for one community alone, but a day of light and inspiration for the entire Jewish nation.
“I came here,” said Rabbi Yosef, “to express the deep appreciation of the Jewish people to Chief Rabbi Lazar for his unwavering dedication to Jewish life in Russia. What once was a spiritual desert now flourishes with yeshivot, schools, and vibrant Jewish communities.” He emotionally recalled the rabbi’s difficult early years in Russia, describing him as a man who overcame adversity to lead a true Jewish renaissance.
A deeply moving moment came when Maxim Herkin, a survivor of Hamas captivity, was called to the stage. Having been held hostage for 738 days, he celebrated his bris that very morning, receiving the name Zalman-Zelig, after his maternal grandfather. Rabbi Lazar served as his sandek and later helped him don tefillin for the first time.
Philanthropist Rabbi Yehuda Davidov presented him with a special set of tefillin. Herkin, visibly emotional, shared that it was during his time in captivity that he discovered his faith in G-d, which gave him the strength to endure.
Among the many distinguished attendees were FJC President Mr. Lev Leviev and STMEGI Foundation President Mr. German Zakharyayev, who were honored with seats beside the rabbinical leadership.
In recognition of his efforts in organizing the event, Rabbi Alexander Boroda, President of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia, received a unique token of appreciation from the organizing committee, presented by community chair Rabbi Boruch Gorin.
As in previous years, a special raffle was held. This year’s prize was a dollar bill blessed by the Lubavitcher Rebbe exactly forty years ago. The winner, Hillel Tzadik—a yeshiva student and Chabad emissary at Cheder Menachem, son of the late R’ Ariel, a victim of the Meron tragedy—was joined by thirty fellow students serving as young emissaries in Moscow’s network of Torah institutions.
The hall erupted in spirited dancing following the raffle, with uplifting Chassidic melodies led by R’ Yaakov Daskal, the Malchus choir, Mendy Brandwein’s orchestra, and child soloist Ari Kraus, lifting the thousands in joyful song.
The event was organized by the staff of the Marina Roscha Central Synagogue and professionally produced by R’ Mordechai Rabinowitz of Tip Event Productions.
Photography: Levi Nazarov
