In a momentous visit aimed at bolstering Jewish life in Uzbekistan, the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, led a distinguished delegation to Tashkent. His visit was marked by a significant memorial event, an inspection of a historic Jewish cemetery, and high-level meetings with government officials and community leaders.
Honoring the Legacy of Rabbi Dovid Abba Gurevitch
The visit coincided with the “Shloshim”—the 30-day commemoration—of Rabbi Dovid Abba Gurevitch, the esteemed Chabad emissary who dedicated many years to strengthening Jewish life in Uzbekistan. A memorial event was held in his honor, bringing together all Jewish communities and organizations in the country. Under the leadership of Tashkent’s Chabad emissary, Rabbi Chaim Shaikevitz, the gathering was a rare and unifying occasion that underscored the continued commitment to Jewish growth in the region.
Rabbi Lazar, accompanied by key figures such as Rabbi Mordechai Weisberg, director of the Jewish community in Moscow, and Rabbi Avraham Bekerman, director of the Chomesh Institute, delivered a keynote address highlighting Rabbi Gurevitch’s enduring impact. He urged unity among Uzbekistan’s Jewish communities and called for further investment in Jewish education and institutions. Rabbi Baruch Gurevitch, a Chabad emissary in Chicago, shared heartfelt memories of his father, and Rabbi Shaikevitz led the recitation of “Kel Malei Rachamim.” Special guest Rabbi Yaakov Roja, Chief Rabbi of Bat Yam, recited Tehillim.
Preserving Jewish Heritage in Tashkent
In addition to the memorial event, Rabbi Lazar and Rabbi Roja visited together with Rabbi Shaikevitz who led the tour, Tashkent’s ancient Jewish cemetery, a site of immense historical and religious significance. The three rabbis closely inspected ongoing preservation efforts to ensure the sanctity of the burial ground in accordance with Jewish law. Government representatives joined them, demonstrating official support for the initiative.
Strengthening Ties with Government Officials
The delegation engaged in a series of diplomatic meetings aimed at fostering stronger relations between the Jewish community and Uzbekistan’s authorities. Meetings were held with senior officials to discuss the continued development of Jewish institutions in the city. Additionally, Rabbi Lazar was hosted by the chairman of the State Committee for Religions of Uzbekistan at the Academy for Islamic Studies, where discussions centered on interfaith relations and the importance of religious coexistence in the country.
Israeli Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Mr. Gideon Lustig, welcomed the delegation at the Israeli embassy, commending Chabad’s dedication to Jewish life in Uzbekistan. He praised the organization’s unwavering support for Jewish communities and its role in maintaining strong ties between Uzbekistan and Israel.
Encouraging Local Jewish Communities
Throughout his visit, Rabbi Lazar toured various Bukharian and Ashkenazi Jewish communities in Tashkent, offering words of blessing and inspiration. The visit left a profound impression on the Jewish community in Tashkent.
